Open Forum: Next Generation (NxGen): Shaping the Future Together
About the Open Forum: Next Generation
The Open Forum: Next Generation (NxGen) is a proud offering of the National Coordinating Center for Public Health Training (NCCPHT). With a focus on fostering the present and future public health workforce, while also addressing changing demands, NxGen is paramount. In partnership with the CDC, the National Network for Public Health Institutes (NNPHI) has allocated over one billion dollars to strengthen and enlarge public health infrastructure nationwide. Since its inception, NxGen has been instrumental in bringing together the Public Health Workforce and disseminating cutting-edge practices in numerous sectors including:
Purpose:
The Open Forum: Next Generation (NxGen) proudly emerges as the second iteration of the esteemed Open Forum for Quality Improvement and Innovation in Public Health, formerly the premier conference for the Community of Practice for Public Health Improvement and Innovation (COPPHII). While rooted in the legacy of its predecessor, NxGen marks a significant shift towards empowering early career professionals in public health. NxGen seeks to usher in a new era of inclusiveness, equity, and resilience in the public health sector. Through collaborative initiatives, provocative dialogues, and an emphasis on applied equity, NxGen aims to position itself as the preeminent forum for emerging and proven public health practitioners where diverse viewpoints converge.
Our Impact
Open Forum: NxGen aims to bridge the gap between seasoned professionals and the next generation by facilitating discussions, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. It envisions pairing those actively involved in applied equity, community-based organizations, and policy development with individuals eager to learn and engage in meaningful discussions.
Our Work
Open Forum: NxGen focuses on strengthening the public health workforce by showcasing innovations in public health and providing a platform for professionals across the spectrum of the public health workforce to converge. We prioritize four key areas in the Open Forum: Foundational Public Health Services through Applied Equity, Strengthening the capacity of the New Public Health Workforce (PHWF), Reshaping the Public Health Infrastructure, and increasing Data Modernization tactics to enhance the capacity of the PHWF.
Open Forum: NxGen is committed to advancing the public health workforce by showcasing innovations and fostering collaboration among professionals across all levels. Our upcoming conference features pre-conference sessions tailored for early-career professionals, including tracks on Data Modernization and Foundational Public Health, offering invaluable insights for navigating the evolving landscape. In addition, our Lightning Talks, our version of TED Talks, will provide a platform for thought leaders to share inspiring ideas and initiatives. These talks will culminate in the recognition of outstanding achievements in public health, with categories such as the Rising Star Award and Equity Champion Award. Moreover, our mentor-mentee speed dating event offers attendees a unique opportunity to connect with experienced professionals, facilitating meaningful mentorship relationships to support career growth and development. Join us at NxGen as we empower the next generation of public health leaders and celebrate excellence in the field.
Join Us
Open Forum: Next Generation is intended for early career professionals. Join us September 18-20, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois. Please click the links below.
Explore Our Five Dynamic Tracks
Public Health Infrastructure: This track focuses on the vital role of infrastructure in supporting effective public health systems, including financing and budgeting, health information systems, policy evaluation, and communication strategies for the public health workforce. Share your research, insights, and best practices to help advance the infrastructure needed to support public health systems, emphasizing developing partnerships and collaborations at various levels.
Advancing and Renewing the Public Health Workforce: With a focus on strategies for strengthening and revitalizing the workforce, sessions may cover workforce development, innovative staffing models, diversity and inclusion, leadership, wellness and mental health support, and more.
(Re)Shaping the Future of Public Health: This track emphasizes conversations and learnings on innovative approaches to address the complex challenges facing communities. This track will explore topics such as social determinants, health equity, social justice, racial and ethical justice initiatives, and emerging global and national threats. Share your research and insights on reducing barriers within public health, transforming the climate of ethics and equity, and exploring the intersection of law and policy. Help create a diverse, equity-focused public health workforce that can address the evolving public health landscape.
Performance Management and Quality Improvement: This track focuses on improving public health system performance and quality through effective management and improvement strategies. Sessions could include topics such as quality improvement methods, CHA/CHIP, strategic planning, data analytics, performance measurement, accreditation and certification, and organizational culture and change management.
Modernizing Data for Tomorrow’s Challenges: This track aims to equip early-career public health professionals with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to harness the power of modern data technologies and methodologies in their work. From data collection and management to analysis and visualization, participants will explore innovative approaches and best practices to leverage data for effective decision-making and impactful interventions.
Get Involved
Submit an abstract: Showcase your research, projects, or ideas by submitting an abstract for consideration at the conference.
Register for Open Forum: Take advantage of early bird pricing, student discounts, and stipends available for eligible participants. Stay tuned for our registration launch by signing up for our mailing list.
Nominate your network for an award: Recognize outstanding contributions in public health by nominating individuals or organizations for one of our prestigious awards.
Follow us on social media: Stay updated with the latest news, insights, and announcements by following us on social media platforms (Twitter/X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok)
Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient future for all.
Welcome to NxGen.
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.
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