You Won't Believe What This UH Professor Did to Win a National Teaching Award—Shocking Secrets Inside!

Denise Nelson-Hurwitz, an Associate Professor at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, has been awarded the prestigious Riegelman Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Public Health Education for 2026. This accolade was presented during the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) Annual Meeting Awards Luncheon in March 2026, held in Arlington, Virginia. Nelson-Hurwitz's recognition reflects her significant contributions to undergraduate public health education, emphasizing innovation in teaching and leadership in program development and student engagement.

In her own words, Nelson-Hurwitz expressed her gratitude: “It’s wonderful to see the work being done by UH Mānoa’s undergraduate program and students highlighted in this way and a tremendous honor to have been nominated by my students and peers.” Her commitment to fostering an engaging learning environment has not gone unnoticed, making her a key figure in the field.

Championing Diversity and Inclusion in Public Health

A first-generation college graduate and an alumna of UH Mānoa, Nelson-Hurwitz's dedication to education is deeply rooted in her community. Over her career, she has increasingly focused on expanding access to higher education and supporting student success. One of her notable initiatives is the Community Health Scholars program, which she co-developed and co-led. This program provides diverse high school students with immersive research and practice experiences, effectively bridging the gap into higher education.

For more than a decade, Nelson-Hurwitz has served as the chair of UH Mānoa’s bachelor of arts in public health program. In this role, she has been instrumental in overseeing curriculum development, course sequencing, and program assessment, ensuring that students are well-prepared for careers in public health. Furthermore, she helped create a public health minor, which has broadened access for students across various disciplines.

Her students consistently commend her for her supportive teaching style, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to preparing future public health professionals. “Winning this national award from the ASPPH highlights Denise Nelson-Hurwitzʻs extraordinary ability to inspire students and her tireless work in ensuring our curriculum remains both innovative and impactful,” stated Jane Chung-Do, chair of the department. “We are honored to have such a dedicated leader on our faculty.”

As public health faces increasing scrutiny and demand for skilled professionals, educators like Nelson-Hurwitz are vital to preparing the next generation. Her work not only enhances individual student experiences but also contributes to addressing broader issues of health equity and access in the community.

This recognition serves as an important reminder of the essential role that dedicated educators play in shaping the future of public health. By focusing on inclusive pathways and increasing diversity in the field, Nelson-Hurwitz exemplifies how one individual can make a profound impact on both students and the community at large.