Founded in 1910, the Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) is the independent voice for public health in Canada with links to the international community. As the only Canadian non-governmental organization focused exclusively on public health, CPHA is uniquely positioned to advise decision-makers about public health system reform and to guide initiatives to help safeguard the personal and community health of Canadians and people around the world. With a diverse membership representing more than 25 professions, a track record of success, a collaborative approach and national reach, CPHA is Canada’s Public Health Leader.
At the 2011 annual conference Dr. Jerry Spiegel was awarded a CPHA International Award. The following report is from the CPHA website.
“Jerry Spiegel has been in the forefront of promoting public health globally, and particularly equity in access to health-promoting environments and community participation.
About a decade ago, he was instrumental in assembling leaders in global health from across Canada and internationally, as well as from CIDA, IDRC, CIHR and Health Canada, to create what became Canada’s Global Health Research Initiative. He has also played a major role in the Canadian Coalition for Global Health Research, and is always willing to share his experience and expertise with students and colleagues individually, in communities, in classes, or in conferences.
Jerry led community–university partnership projects in Cuba and Ecuador – both of which are recognized as exemplary in promoting the values of this award – and he is leading important work in South Africa. Dr. Spiegel is widely known as someone who works respectfully with colleagues from the South, and who inspires students to do the same.
The Ecuador project focused specifically on building capacity to promote health equity and community participation, leaving a legacy of sustainable community-based public health projects across the country. Jerry has not only had a significant influence in specific communities, but also at national policy levels at home and abroad. He has worked tirelessly to assist colleagues and students in Canada and internationally to embrace the global public health values for which this award is targeted.
He also publishes commentaries drawing attention to the need to address equity and community participation in promoting health – and he is very deserving of this recognition.”