This area refers to how globalization affects people’s susceptibility to physical and mental illnesses, their access to appropriate kinds of care, and their general well being within the context of their community. Speakers include dedicated professionals within the fields of global health, public health, medicine, policy and advocacy.

Caitlin Thistle, Senior Advisor for South Africa, Bureau for Global Health, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) will discuss her 10+ years of experience in global global health, family planning program design/analysis, multi-million-dollar program and project management, and knowledge management. Caitlin has worked and partnered with a number of organizations including USAID, FP2020/30, WHO/IBP, the Institute of Reproductive Health, JHU/Center for Communication Programs, and Pathfinder International. Caitlin holds a master’s degree in International Development from the University of Pittsburgh and bachelors’ degrees from Susquehanna University.