Strategic Leadership in Data Modernization Efforts (SLIDE)

About the SLIDE Program 

The National Network of Public Health Institutes (NNPHI) is pleased to partner with Flourish & Thrive Labs to announce the launch of the third cohort of the Strategic Leadership in DM Efforts (SLIDE) training series for Fall 2026. SLIDE is a virtual, cohort-based training program designed to equip public health professionals at varied levels of data modernization (DM) and project management experience with the skills necessary to strategically plan, manage, and implement DM activities and sustainably leverage infrastructure to modernize public health data systems. 

Utilizing participant feedback and evaluation data from the SLIDE pilot (Spring 2025) and SLIDE 2.0 (Fall 2025), SLIDE 3.0 has been refined to provide a more robust training program and peer-networking environment. 

To help participants think more concretely and practice applying acquired skills and approaches, participants will be asked to identify a specific DM-related challenge or organizational vision that will serve as the central thread throughout the entire program. Between sessions, participants will receive optional assignments that apply the knowledge from each session directly to their specific DM-related challenge. While the assignments are not mandatory, participants are encouraged to complete them, which will progressively build toward a final presentation. Participants will share their insights, receive peer and trainer feedback, and collaboratively refine their emerging DM approach – creating a dynamic, personalized learning experience. 

SLIDE 3.0 Training Overview

SLIDE 3.0 will be delivered from August to November 2026, with biweekly virtual training sessions held on Thursdays. Each session is 120 minutes and includes didactic content, interactive exercises, peer-to-peer problem-solving, and dedicated time for Q&A and cohort check-ins. This training approach emphasizes relationship building, network development, and professional identity formation among public health leaders. Recognizing that DM is not just a technical challenge, but a collaborative journey, the SLIDE program will intentionally create spaces for cohort members to connect, share experiences, and build a robust professional network of DM champions. 

Central to the SLIDE program is a progressive, interconnected learning methodology designed to help participants realize their DM vision through a carefully structured journey. Each session is intentionally crafted to build upon the previous one, creating a cumulative learning experience that transforms participants’ initial problem or vision into a comprehensive, actionable strategy. The content, learning objectives, and dates for each session are provided in the table below. 

Who Should Apply

SLIDE is designed for public health professionals who are currently involved in or overseeing DM activities at Public Health Infrastructure Grant (PHIG) recipient health departments. PHIG recipients with DM-related workplan activities may apply as individuals or as blended teams (up to three participants from the same agency). Individuals at all levels of leadership are encouraged to apply, including those managing up and across teams within public health agencies to foster cross-departmental collaboration. We welcome PHIG recipient health departments who participated in either the SLIDE Pilot or SLIDE 2.0 to reapply to participate in SLIDE 3.0, although we ask that individuals who have previously not attended be the main participants for this cohort.  

Participants are expected to attend at least 80% of the sessions (i.e., at least 5 of the 7 sessions) in order to receive a certificate of completion. Although we understand that you may not be able to attend each session, we encourage participants to take advantage of this opportunity to peer network and engage with DM subject matter experts through these sessions. 

Key Dates

• Application opens June 10, 2026
• Application closes July 10, 2026
• Cohort will receive notice of acceptance no later than July 31, 2026
• Training Series will run August 20, 2026 through November 12, 2026 

Contact Us

For more information or questions, please contact Helen Batts at hbatts@nnphi.org.

You can also visit our SLIDE Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for more information and common questions.

This work is supported by funds made available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), National Center for STLT Public Health Infrastructure and Workforce, through OE22-2203: Strengthening U.S. Public Health Infrastructure, Workforce, and Data Systems grant. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.