Minnesota Public Health Association upcoming events

Planetary Health Task Force (October 26, 2026)

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Are you interested in the intersection of human + environmental health? Climate change + social justice?

All are welcome to join MPHA's Planetary Health Task Force! The group is co-chaired by Tyler Pyle, MPH and Melissa Thone, DNP and meets monthly on the fourth Monday, 11am - 12 pm CT virtually.

As defined by the Planetary Health Alliance, Planetary Health is "a solutions-oriented, transdisciplinary field and social movement focused on analyzing and addressing the impacts of human disruptions to Earth’s natural systems on human health and all life on Earth." This task force's work will include knowledge sharing, trainings, and more for our MPHA community. Join us as we build out this new aspect of MPHA!

Planetary Health Task Force: Privilege in Action for Civic Engagement (October 26, 2026)

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Privilege in Action for Civic Engagement
Why Community Engagement Defines Planetary Health

Communities shape the natural and built environments that support human life. This session connects core planetary health principles to local civic power through two contrasting real-world events: an urban community that mobilized early against a massive data center and an unannounced detention project built in a fragile wetland. Participants will gain practical insights into using community voice to challenge unsustainable development and foster long-term systems change.

Special Guest:

Monica Ibarra, MS Ed, MPH
MDH Capacity Enrichment Specialist

All are welcome to join MPHA's Planetary Health Task Force! The group is co-chaired by Tyler Pyle, MPH and Melissa Thone, DNP and meets monthly on the fourth Monday, 11am - 12 pm CT virtually.

[Partner Event] Community Co-design Leadership Training (October 27, 2026)

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Community Co-design Leadership Training

Join Destination Medical Center (DMC) and City of Rochester for a leadership training designed to strengthen equitable community engagement and shared decision-making across the Rochester region.

This free training will consist of two in-person sessions which will be modeled to offer the experience of being a part of a co-design process. In between sessions, you will have the opportunity to practice being a community researcher/designer and explore opportunities for co-design with colleagues and other partners. This training is ideal for organization leaders, community leaders, municipalities and department leaders, community developers, project managers, communication managers and professionals, and anyone who specializes in equitable community engagement and decision-making.

Some objectives of this training are:

Understand the community co-design process and purpose.
Know how to identify projects that are well suited for co-design as well as when projects might be better suited for other methods.
Learn how to evaluate and ensure a co-design project is set up for success and is largely consistent in process and intention.
Build a shared language around co-design.
Identify projects and collaborations for co-design in the future.
Develop a relationship with a team that can offer ongoing support and coaching to apply co-design.

Session Details

Session 1 (3 hours) - 2 options:

Tuesday October 27th: 12pm to 3pm
Thursday October 29th: 9am to 12pm

Session 2 (2 hours) - 2 options

Tuesday November 10th: 1pm to 3pm
Thursday November 12th: 10am to 12pm

The training is based on the Equitable Community Co-Design Playbook (2nd Edition, 2026), developed by ByDesign in partnership with DMC and the City of Rochester. Participants will receive a copy of the guide.

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (October 28, 2026)

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

It’s time to start planning for MPHA’s signature event: our Annual Conference! Scheduled for Spring 2027 (at a Minnesota location to be determined by the committee), this event relies on a dedicated team to bring it to life.

As a committee member, you will have the opportunity to help shape the conference, with roles ranging from program content curation to promotions. No prior experience is necessary, and all are welcome!

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

The Labor Movement and Public Health (October 28, 2026)

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 22:30:00 GMT

The Labor Movement and Public Health

Please join the Minnesota Public Health Association for a discussion on the relationship between the labor movement and public health at this moment in history.

Lydia Fess, Meet and Confer Chair for the Minnesota Association of Professional Employees at the Minnesota Department of Health, will talk about labor rights as public health and the current state of public health labor. Open discussion to follow.

[Partner Event] MNSBHA Open More Doors 2026 Summit (October 29, 2026)

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:45:00 GMT

Online Registration Closes October 18, 2026.

[Partner Event] Community Co-design Leadership Training (October 29, 2026)

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Community Co-design Leadership Training

Join Destination Medical Center (DMC) and City of Rochester for a leadership training designed to strengthen equitable community engagement and shared decision-making across the Rochester region.

Some objectives of this training are:

Understand the community co-design process and purpose.
Know how to identify projects that are well suited for co-design as well as when projects might be better suited for other methods.
Learn how to evaluate and ensure a co-design project is set up for success and is largely consistent in process and intention.
Build a shared language around co-design.
Identify projects and collaborations for co-design in the future.
Develop a relationship with a team that can offer ongoing support and coaching to apply co-design.

Session Details

Session 1 (3 hours) - 2 options:

Tuesday October 27th: 12pm to 3pm
Thursday October 29th: 9am to 12pm

Session 2 (2 hours) - 2 options

Tuesday November 10th: 1pm to 3pm
Thursday November 12th: 10am to 12pm

MPHA-at-APHA 2026 Luncheon (November 02, 2026)

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 17:30:00 GMT

Dear Minnesota Public Health Association Members and Friends,

If you are attending APHA 2026, please join fellow Minnesotans at our annual lunch on Monday, November 2 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. CST at Alamo Biscuit Company & Panaderia River Walk, 849 E Commerce St #197, San Antonio, TX 78205. Alamo Biscuit is across from the convention center.

MPHA organizes this annual gathering for those at the American Public Health Association (APHA) conference to share meeting tips and meet other Minnesotans who are passionate about public health! All are welcome to attend to learn more about MPHA and APHA.

Please note that you will be responsible for the cost of your lunch. The restaurant will be able to give separate checks. Preview the menu: https://alamobiscuitco.com/menu/river-walk/.

If you have questions, please contact Annie Halland, Minnesota's Affiliate Representative to APHA’s Governing Council at argc@mpha.net.

Additional MPHA-at-APHA notes:

Are you presenting? Please let us know so we can advertise your session! Email admin@mpha.net

We hope you will be able to join us at APHA!

[Partner Event] MN SOPHE 2026 Annual Summit (November 05, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

The annual Minnesota Society for Public Health Education (MN SOPHE) Health Education Summit brings together health education specialists and public health professionals from across the state to share knowledge, spark ideas, and strengthen the practice of health education in Minnesota.

This year, we're proud to introduce our theme—"Uninterrupted: Public Health in Action."

Public health is constantly evolving. As new challenges emerge, technologies advance, and communities' needs shift, health educators continue to adapt, innovate, and lead. Uninterrupted reflects the resilience of Minnesota's public health workforce and the ongoing commitment to improving health through collaboration, leadership, education, and action.

Throughout the day, attendees will explore the current state of public health, discover innovative partnerships and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, strengthen leadership skills, and connect with colleagues who are shaping the future of health education across our state. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned practitioner, you'll leave with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and renewed energy to advance your work.

The MN SOPHE Planning Committee is thrilled to welcome you to an engaging lineup of speakers, thought-provoking sessions, and meaningful networking—an affordable, in-person opportunity to connect with colleagues, learn from leaders across Minnesota, and see what's moving and shaking in health education.

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (November 09, 2026)

Mon, 09 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Join the Minnesota Public Health Association (MPHA) and interested partners working to raise awareness of the key public health role of vaccines, actions toward increasing vaccine confidence in Minnesota, and strategies to support access to them. The audience is cross-sector immunization champions, inclusive of public health workers, clinical providers and more. Please feel welcome to send this event registration to interested folks in your network who would like to join us!

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.

Policy and Advocacy Committee (November 10, 2026)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

The MPHA Policy and Advocacy Committee meets the second Tuesday of each month from 12:00 - 1:00 pm CT. Anyone interested is welcome to join. The committee is co-chaired by Madeline Turbes. Learn more about the committee here.

[Partner Event] Culturally-relevant Nutrition Interventions in Health Research (November 10, 2026)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Join us on November 10th! Dr. Ambria Crusan from C2DREAM Project BRAID will explore the role of culturally relevant nutrition interventions in health research, the evolving landscape of Food as Medicine, and how food nourishes not only our bodies but also our cultural identities and community connections. Learn how nutrition can support health outcomes while honoring the cultural significance of food.

[Partner Event] Community Co-design Leadership Training (November 10, 2026)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Community Co-design Leadership Training

Join Destination Medical Center (DMC) and City of Rochester for a leadership training designed to strengthen equitable community engagement and shared decision-making across the Rochester region.

Some objectives of this training are:

Understand the community co-design process and purpose.
Know how to identify projects that are well suited for co-design as well as when projects might be better suited for other methods.
Learn how to evaluate and ensure a co-design project is set up for success and is largely consistent in process and intention.
Build a shared language around co-design.
Identify projects and collaborations for co-design in the future.
Develop a relationship with a team that can offer ongoing support and coaching to apply co-design.

Session Details

Session 1 (3 hours) - 2 options:

Tuesday October 27th: 12pm to 3pm
Thursday October 29th: 9am to 12pm

Session 2 (2 hours) - 2 options

Tuesday November 10th: 1pm to 3pm
Thursday November 12th: 10am to 12pm

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (November 11, 2026)

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

[Partner Event] Community Co-design Leadership Training (November 12, 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Community Co-design Leadership Training

Join Destination Medical Center (DMC) and City of Rochester for a leadership training designed to strengthen equitable community engagement and shared decision-making across the Rochester region.

Some objectives of this training are:

Understand the community co-design process and purpose.
Know how to identify projects that are well suited for co-design as well as when projects might be better suited for other methods.
Learn how to evaluate and ensure a co-design project is set up for success and is largely consistent in process and intention.
Build a shared language around co-design.
Identify projects and collaborations for co-design in the future.
Develop a relationship with a team that can offer ongoing support and coaching to apply co-design.

Session Details

Session 1 (3 hours) - 2 options:

Tuesday October 27th: 12pm to 3pm
Thursday October 29th: 9am to 12pm

Session 2 (2 hours) - 2 options

Tuesday November 10th: 1pm to 3pm
Thursday November 12th: 10am to 12pm

[Partner Event] Partners in Public Health Conference (November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Save the date: 2026 Minnesota Partners in Public Health Conference

Join us November 17-19 at the Park Event Center near St. Cloud, MN, for the third annual Minnesota Partners in Public Health Conference.

Fifty years ago, in April 1976, Minnesota laid the foundation for its modern public health system with the Community Health Services Act—now known as the Local Public Health Act.

This year, local, Tribal, and state public health partners will come together around this milestone. We'll honor the past, and we'll reflect on how we're shaping the present and inspiring the future.

We hope you'll join us.

For more information on conference objectives and who should attend, please visit: Minnesota Partners in Public Health Conference - MN Dept. of Health

Health Equity Committee Meeting (November 19, 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 23:30:00 GMT

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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.

MPHA 2026-2027 Public Health Matters Policy Forum Kickoff! (November 20, 2026)

Fri, 20 Nov 2026 13:30:00 GMT

2026-2027 MPHA “Public Health Matters” Policy Forum Series

Local Public Health - More than Bike Trails and Walking Paths

MPHA's popular "Public Health Matters" Policy Forum breakfast series kicks off on Friday, November 20, 2026 at the Wilder Foundation, in St. Paul!
Check-in and a light breakfast begin at 7:30am. Forums begin promptly at 8:00am and conclude at 9:30am.

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November 20, 2026…Beyond Behind Bars: Cultivating Lasting Change

Come hear from local and statewide experts as they share programs and strategies for those who are incarcerated to transition back into life beyond correctional facilities. This forum will highlight innovative community initiatives and strategies around Minnesota that have worked in local communities…How are communities working together in creative ways to reduce recidivism, address parenting behind bars, and diminish barriers to health? What public health strategies are being used? What are some unique programs that support families of incarcerated individuals? And how can this work be replicated or modified for success in other communities?

Moderator: Ken Bence, MPHA Past President
Panelists: Tyler Roenicke, Washington County Jail Parenting Program and TBA

Location Details
The Policy Forum breakfast series will be held at the beautiful Wilder Foundation in St. Paul. Conveniently located near the Green Line and public transit options, free parking in the on-site ramp is also available.

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Upcoming sessions: February 12, 2027, and May 7, 2027. Stay tuned for more information!

Forum panelists info and bio can be found on the forum webpage. MPHA wants to ensure cost is not a barrier to participating; please email admin@mpha.net if you need registration help. It is recommended to attend in person to get the most out of these forums although a virtual option is also available as a registration option.

Planetary Health Task Force (November 23, 2026)

Mon, 23 Nov 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Are you interested in the intersection of human + environmental health? Climate change + social justice?

All are welcome to join MPHA's Planetary Health Task Force! The group is co-chaired by Tyler Pyle, MPH and Melissa Thone, DNP and meets monthly on the fourth Monday, 11am - 12 pm CT virtually.

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (November 25, 2026)

Wed, 25 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

Membership & Communications Committee Meeting (November 26, 2026)

Thu, 26 Nov 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Looking for a meaningful way to get involved with MPHA?

The Membership & Communications Committee invites you to help us connect, grow, and inspire public health professionals across the state.

In this role, you will lead recruitment efforts, manage our monthly newsletter and social media channels, and host vibrant community events like the MPHey! series. More importantly, you'll help create a platform where members can share their vital work, raise awareness, and facilitate the public health discussions that matter most.

Ready to connect? We’d love to have your voice at the table. Reach out today to join our next monthly meeting!

All are welcome at the next meeting, currently scheduled for the 4th Thursday of every month, from 2 - 3 pm CT.

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The committee is co-chaired by Natasha Kataeva and Matt Flory, Past President. If you can't make the meeting, but are still interested in the committee's work, please email membership@mpha.net to be added to the list.

Policy and Advocacy Committee (December 08, 2026)

Tue, 08 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (December 09, 2026)

Wed, 09 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (December 14, 2026)

Mon, 14 Dec 2026 19:30:00 GMT

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.

Health Equity Committee Meeting (December 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Dec 2026 23:30:00 GMT

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MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (December 23, 2026)

Wed, 23 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

Membership & Communications Committee Meeting (December 24, 2026)

Thu, 24 Dec 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Looking for a meaningful way to get involved with MPHA?

The Membership & Communications Committee invites you to help us connect, grow, and inspire public health professionals across the state.

Ready to connect? We’d love to have your voice at the table. Reach out today to join our next monthly meeting!

All are welcome at the next meeting, currently scheduled for the 4th Thursday of every month, from 2 - 3 pm CT.

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Planetary Health Task Force (December 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Dec 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Are you interested in the intersection of human + environmental health? Climate change + social justice?

All are welcome to join MPHA's Planetary Health Task Force! The group is co-chaired by Tyler Pyle, MPH and Melissa Thone, DNP and meets monthly on the fourth Monday, 11am - 12 pm CT virtually.

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (January 06, 2027)

Wed, 06 Jan 2027 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (January 11, 2027)

Mon, 11 Jan 2027 19:30:00 GMT

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (January 20, 2027)

Wed, 20 Jan 2027 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (February 03, 2027)

Wed, 03 Feb 2027 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (February 08, 2027)

Mon, 08 Feb 2027 19:30:00 GMT

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (February 17, 2027)

Wed, 17 Feb 2027 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (March 03, 2027)

Wed, 03 Mar 2027 18:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (March 08, 2027)

Mon, 08 Mar 2027 19:30:00 GMT

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (March 17, 2027)

Wed, 17 Mar 2027 17:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (March 31, 2027)

Wed, 31 Mar 2027 17:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (April 12, 2027)

Mon, 12 Apr 2027 18:30:00 GMT

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (April 14, 2027)

Wed, 14 Apr 2027 17:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

MPHA 2027 Annual Conference Planning (April 28, 2027)

Wed, 28 Apr 2027 17:00:00 GMT

Meeting Details & Commitment:

When: Every other Wednesday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT via Zoom.
Time Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per month for meetings, plus a small amount of flexible time for specific volunteer tasks.

Want to see what we’ve done in the past?
Check out previous MPHA conferences here and join us to help make the 2027 conference a success!

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (May 10, 2027)

Mon, 10 May 2027 18:30:00 GMT

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (June 14, 2027)

Mon, 14 Jun 2027 18:30:00 GMT

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.

Immunize Minnesota Coalition Meeting (July 12, 2027)

Mon, 12 Jul 2027 18:30:00 GMT

This event requires registration to join. You do not need to be a member of the Immunize Minnesota Coalition to join the monthly meetings. Please direct questions to immunizemn@mpha.net.