Murfreesboro, TN - It was a week of celebration and connection for Middle Tennessee State University’s Public Health Program as faculty, alumni, and students gathered for the Tennessee Public Health Association Conference held at Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro. The event, which drew over 700 attendees from across the state, became a showcase of MTSU’s growing influence in the field of public health.

Kahler Stone Named 2025 Academician of the Year

One of the most memorable moments came during the conference luncheon, where Kahler Stone, associate professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance, was honored as the 2025 Academician of the Year. The award was presented in the presence of Tennessee Health Department Commissioner John Dunn, adding a special touch to the occasion. Stone expressed his gratitude, saying, “Receiving the Academician of the Year award was a great honor — and having Commissioner Dunn there made it even more meaningful.”

Students and Alumni Take the Stage

MTSU’s presence was felt throughout the conference, with nine graduate students and several alumni stepping up as presenters. Their research and insights added depth to the event, while faculty members including Bethany Wrye, Chipper Smith, Angie Bowman, and Katy Stone contributed their expertise to the discussions. The energy and engagement from the MTSU contingent reflected the program’s commitment to shaping future leaders in public health.

PHamily Dinner Brings Generations Together

Following the conference, the third annual PHamily Dinner Reception was held at the Miller Education Center on campus. More than 80 students, alumni, and faculty came together to celebrate career milestones and reconnect. Department Chair Bethany Wrye shared her enthusiasm: “It’s wonderful to see alumni reconnect with each other. Most importantly, it’s wonderful to see current students network with alumni and get a more expansive yet concrete picture of what they could be doing in a few years.”

Early Career Awards Highlight Rising Stars

Two standout alumni were honored during the dinner. Drew Carpenter, class of 2021, received the Undergraduate Early Career Award for his work with the Nashville Health Care Council and continued involvement with MTSU’s alumni board. Krista McClanahan, a 2022 graduate, earned the Graduate Early Career Award for her impactful work in youth mental health and epidemiology with the Tennessee Department of Health.

Program Growth and New Initiatives

The evening also spotlighted new initiatives, including a partnership with Murfreesboro Medical Clinic, the launch of the Campus Recovery Group, and the creation of the Student Public Health Association. With enrollment nearly doubling since last year, MTSU’s Public Health Program is clearly on the rise.