Resa M. Jones, chair and associate professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the College of Public Health, has been elected chair of the executive board of the American Public Health Association (APHA).

As chair, Jones is responsible for leading the board, which oversees the association’s resources. Jones said she is committed to ensuring that the group’s strategic plan is used to help the organization and public health professionals increase their impact. “I really want to make sure we’re taking action,” said Jones. “The strategic plan is a resource for our staff, members and state affiliates so they can move forward with our vision to create the healthiest nation in one generation.”

Founded in 1872, the APHA advocates for public health issues through evidence-based science and research influence public policy and connects professionals from different public health fields. Jones has been involved with the association for 19 years, beginning when she was a master of public health student. She was the chair of the National Mentoring Program and Public Health Student Caucus (now the Student Assembly) and was the first student to serve on the executive board. Since then, she has held numerous roles, including secretary of the epidemiology section and serving on the governing council, nominating committee and strategic planning committee.

Jones was elected to a four-year term as an executive board member in 2014 and served as vice-chair in 2016 and 2017.

“The vision and mission really resonate with me,” said Jones. “I think any health-related professional would find the APHA’s principles meaningful and support them.”