Welcome to 2026!

Dear Public Health and Health Studies Students,

Welcome to a new semester! I’m delighted to return as Director of the Undergraduate Program in Public Health/Health Studies after a year away on sabbatical, and I’m excited to reconnect with both new and returning students.

For those I haven’t yet met, I am an Associate Professor, Teaching Stream in the Department of Human Biology, with a background in biological health science. My career has taken me through both medical and academic settings, and I’ve always valued how “bench‑to‑bedside” experiences shape the way we understand public health. This interdisciplinary perspective continues to guide my teaching, leadership, and commitment to your learning.

As we begin this semester together, I want to encourage you to stay curious, support one another, and remain open to the many paths that public health can offer. The work you are preparing to do truly matters, and I’m inspired by the dedication you bring to this field.

I look forward to a meaningful and productive term with all of you.

Sincerely, 

Colleen Dockstader