A fall 2025 cohort of Cal State Fullerton Master of Public Health students will create a pilot program to build, promote and support improved health outcomes.
The Orange County Board of Supervisors recently approved the allocation of $450,000 from Fourth District Supervisor Doug Chaffee’s discretionary funds to launch the Community Health Ambassador Program in partnership with the university’s Department of Public Health.
The cohort will launch a pilot program to design, implement and evaluate targeted interventions meant to reduce health disparities in Stanton. The program also will establish a sustainable model to improve community health.
“This partnership is a reminder of what’s possible when higher education and public service come together for the common good,” said CSUF President Ronald Rochon. “By working together, we’re giving our students a unique opportunity to roll up their sleeves and make a real difference in our local communities. From conducting community needs assessments to improving access to healthcare services, our students will gain invaluable experience and help create meaningful change. We are grateful to Chairman Chaffee and the county for championing this important initiative.”
The program has three goals: improved health indicators, increased access and coordination of healthcare services, and enhanced healthcare outcomes by addressing social determinants of health.
The program — a two-year collaboration from June 2025 to May 2027 — will work with county departments and community organizations to conduct a community needs assessment.
Ultimately, the initiative aims to design a replicable framework for community health improvement, with the potential to generate data and evidence relevant to local healthcare practices and public policy.
“Closing gaps in healthcare and improving community health requires a collaborative effort and evidence-based action,” said Chair Doug Chaffee. “This pilot program brings together academic expertise, local government and community insight to design real solutions that can be scaled across the county. I’m excited to support this investment in both our students and our residents, and the impact it will have on building a healthier Orange County.”
Michele Wood, chair of CSUF’s Department of Public Health, said the investment and partnership offer Master of Public Health students direct, hands-on public health experience while also addressing the community health needs of Orange County.
“It takes collaborations and partnerships like this to achieve health equity and assure healthy environments and equitable opportunities that allow our local communities to thrive,” she said.