Montclair State University President Jonathan Koppell and Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. have announced a partnership agreement between the Essex County Office of Public Health Management and Montclair’s College for Community Health, Department of Public Health.
The partnership will make the Essex County Office of Public Health Management the first countywide Academic Health Department in New Jersey.
“This partnership reflects Montclair State University’s deep commitment to serving the public good through impactful, community-based collaboration,” said President Koppell. “We are proud to expand our myriad of partnerships with Essex County and grateful to County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo for recognizing what is possible when academic expertise of our Department of Public Health is aligned with Essex County’s forward-thinking leadership.
“Together, we are building a model for how universities and local governments can work together to strengthen public health infrastructure, train the next generation of professionals and improve the well-being of the communities we serve.”
The agreement formalizes an existing working relationship between the two entities and strengthens their shared commitment to serve the public, foster research initiatives and share resources when needed. By working more closely together, the County and University will be able to create a coordinated approach to preventing disease, promoting wellness and public health education and preparing for emergencies.
The combination of practical experience by the County’s public health officials and academic insight from the University’s teachers and students is an opportunity to improve outcomes, create innovative approaches to promoting public health and serve as a model for community-centered public health practice.
“Montclair State always has been a great partner with us, and their involvement and presence in the community is second to none,” said DiVincenzo. “Combining the talent and resources of both our institutions will enhance the outreach and service we provide to our residents, develop innovative approaches to enhance wellness and preparedness and create a pipeline to develop future public health officials.”
In addition, the agreement creates a workforce development pathway for Montclair State University students to gain real-world, research and data analysis experience by interning with the Essex County Office of Public Health Management.
Interns would be involved in data collection and analysis, assist with existing public health programs and outreach initiatives and participate in public advocacy and emergency preparedness in cooperation with Essex County. The University would ensure students meet academic requirements and understand the Health Department’s policies and procedures.
“We are committed to teaching, research and service that promotes equitable health care and well-being in New Jersey and beyond,” said Dean Ron Werner-Wilson of Montclair’s College for Community Health.
“As the dean of the College, I am delighted that this Academic Health Department partnership with the Essex County Office of Public Health Management will enable us to join our individual commitments to public health, multiplying our impact on Essex County residents, while building our students’ skills and expertise.”
