Our Researchers Step Up to Ensure ‘Nothing About Us Without Us’

We can’t properly express just how proud we are of our team! UCA WAVES is making an impact right now in San Antonio, Texas, at the APHA 2026 Annual Meeting & Expo. Here’s some words from our Founding Executive Director, Lily Chen:

“We were so proud of our amazing young scholars presenting at APHA 2026. Learning from them and supporting them is one of the biggest joys of what we do. Thank you, Amelia, for your insightful work on the analysis of leading causes of mortality in the U.S.

Today, our amazing Ellean will present an oral presentation at 10:30 a.m. in Room 006C with an amazing panel of youth on ‘Empowering Youth to Shape Health Equity and Community Change.’ Come learn about what Ellean found after she disaggregated the newest data on youth suicide. It’s fun to help you practice public speaking (and for us to learn together, too).

Attending the API Caucus reception, with a beautiful performance, was a highlight! I always love connecting with more like-minded AAPI public health professionals, both during and outside the conference (thank you to my friends who drove all the way from Austin). Providing such a space for public health and advocacy is a value few conferences can offer, especially for first-generation immigrants. It was so uplifting to connect with you all through inspiring conversations, including those about civic duties.”

We have no doubt their hard work is paying off, and their commitment to giving back to the community is shining bright. We can’t wait to share more when they come back home!

Research is one of the core things we do here at UCA WAVES. Want to learn more? Click on the button below.