Celebrating 25 Years of Impact: A Milestone Year for the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health
The Zuckerman College of Public Health proudly celebrated its first 25 years with a series of memorable events in Washington DC and Tucson that honored our history, our people, and our collective commitment to improving public health locally, nationally, and globally.
Our DC Celebration
The festivities began in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, November 2, with a special reception to celebrate the Zuckerman College of Public Health’s first 25 years of growth and impact. Hosted by the college during the 2025 American Public Health Association (APHA) Annual Meeting, the event brought together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community partners, many already in town for the APHA meeting, to kick off the college’s 25th anniversary year celebrations.
The event took place high above the city skyline at the Crimson Whiskey Bar, located atop the Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center, and the rooftop venue offered the perfect backdrop for reconnecting and celebrating the college. The evening was filled with energy and pride as attendees celebrated the many accomplishments of the college and the numerous students, alumni, faculty, and staff presenting at the APHA conference.
Thank you to everyone who attended to support the college!
25th Anniversary Gala
The celebration continued back in Arizona on Friday, November 7, at the El Conquistador Tucson, a Hilton Resort, for the 25th Anniversary Gala, a signature event honoring the College’s legacy and future. Nearly 400 guests attended, including alumni, some representing the inaugural Alumni Council, alongside supporters, faculty, staff, and friends. The night was both inspiring and impactful, raising more than $750,000 to support the College’s mission and student success.
University of Arizona Homecoming
To round out the anniversary festivities, the college hosted a table at the 2025 Homecoming Tailgate, where retired faculty, alumni, students, and friends gathered once more to celebrate. Visiting Alumni Council members had the meaningful opportunity to meet with UA President Suresh Garimella and Provost Patricia Prelock, strengthening connections and reinforcing the college’s role in shaping the next 25 years of public health excellence.
Together, these events highlighted the strength of our community and the profound impact the Zuckerman College of Public Health has made over a quarter-century. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to advancing health on a global scale, training future public health leaders, and serving as champions for the wellbeing of the communities we serve.
Read our 25 Years Report!
We’re excited to share our 25 Years Report for the Zuckerman College of Public Health! This milestone edition reflects the growth of the college, from a small MPH program to a nationally recognized leader in public health education, research, and community engagement. Explore the stories and achievements that highlight our impact and celebrate the vision, collaboration, and compassion that powered our growth and will continue to guide our next 25 years.
President of Alumni Council Dr. Anu Partap MPH ’01 and fellow council member Zipatly Mendoza, MPH, BS ‘02 with Wilbur at the 2025 Homecoming Tailgate
Alumni Council member Gilbert Arvizu MS, BS ’15 with MEZCOPH faculty members Dr. Scott Carvajal, and Dr. Salma Patel with Alumni Affairs Lead Amber Richmond at the MEZCOPH table during the 2025 Homecoming Tailgate.
Alumni table at the 25th Anniversary Gala
Dean Hakim with Michelle Gamber, DrPH ‘12, MPH ‘07, Mary Derby, PhD ‘08, and Amber Richmond at the Washington DC reception.
Dean Hakim with alumnus, Luis Valdez PhD '17, MPH '14, BA '11
Alumni, students, and community supporters gather at the rooftop at the Washington DC reception.