Community Engaged Research in Action:
Partnering with CEARCH to deepen Public Health Impact
Building authentic and mutually beneficial partnerships, the Community Engagement to Advance Research and Community Health (CEARCH) at the University of Minnesota serves as a bridge between community partners and academic researchers. By recognizing different knowledge systems and actively involving partners at every stage of the research process, CEARCH helps transform public health research into actionable, community-driven solutions aimed at long-term health impact. Join us to explore how CEARCH can build on and champion the incredible work you are already doing in your communities. Together we can leverage our network, resources, and collaborative research models to amplify your local efforts and deepen long-term public health impact.
Presenter
Dr. Angelica Koch is the Assistant Director of CEARCH (Community Engagement to Advance Research and Community Health) within the Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) at the University of Minnesota (UMN). She is also a lecturer in the UMN School of Public Health and an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas. A public health expert in organizational leadership, health care coalitions, and community-based initiatives, she brings extensive experience in designing and evaluating impactful programs that bridge research and practice through participatory approaches.
Dr. Koch's career spans local and national efforts—from establishing a free medical clinic to leading complex state and national initiatives that address systemic health barriers. Her work is defined by managing large-scale programs, responding to public health emergencies, and fostering deep collaboration across public health, healthcare, and community sectors.
In her role at CEARCH, Dr. Koch leads the development of innovative programs that promote bi-directional learning between researchers and community partners. She ensures community voices are central to shaping research agendas, policies, and programs, and is dedicated to translating research into sustainable solutions that strengthen community resilience.
As a dedicated educator and lifelong learner, Dr. Koch is committed to learning alongside community and public health partners while mentoring the next generation of public health leaders. Her work reflects a deep commitment to advancing health for all and achieving lasting improvements in population health.
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MPHA Health Equity Committee meetings include dedicated time following the presentation for meaningful discussion, connection and networking, participant updates, and reports on committee and MPHA activities.
Meetings are scheduled for the 3rd Thursday of the month from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Currently all meetings are virtual. Meetings are open to MPHA members and non-members who want to learn more and take action on advancing health equity in Minnesota.
For more information about the Health Equity Committee, please email healthequity@mpha.net and we will get back to you! The committee is co-chaired by Rodolfo Gutierrez, Erica Fishman, and Sara Rogers.