The BRACE Climate and Health Equity Coalition held its quarterly meeting on July 16, 2025, organized by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). The meeting focused on updates regarding partnerships, staffing changes, and upcoming initiatives aimed at enhancing climate resilience and health equity.

The meeting commenced with discussions about the evolving partnership with Yale University. It was clarified that this collaboration would not take the form of a formal contract but would instead foster an informal gathering of stakeholders interested in private health activities within DPH.

A significant staffing update was shared regarding the departure of Marumita, a health program associate who managed an air quality monitoring grant. Due to budget constraints, DPH is currently under a spending freeze and will not be filling her position immediately, resulting in reduced capacity within the office.

However, positive developments were announced, including the creation of an adaptation and resiliency fellowship in collaboration with Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU). This fellowship aims to attract recent graduates, ideally with a master's degree, to work alongside DPH staff for a two-year term. The job posting is expected to be available on the SCSU website soon, and coalition members were encouraged to share this opportunity within their networks.

The meeting also touched on the potential for collaboration with the AmeriCorps Campus Climate Action Corps program, which could provide additional support later in the year. Participants discussed the importance of maintaining connections with Southern Connecticut State University to facilitate this partnership.

In response to inquiries about the fellowship's structure, it was indicated that a hybrid work model would likely be adopted, allowing for both in-person and virtual engagement. This approach aims to enhance workforce exposure and development, particularly in environmental health sectors.

The meeting concluded with a preview of an upcoming symposium scheduled for September, which will build on previous discussions and initiatives. Coalition members were reminded of the importance of sharing job postings and event details to maximize outreach and engagement within their communities.

Overall, the meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships and develop workforce capacity in addressing climate and health equity challenges in Connecticut.