Real people, real impact

Every year, the Center for Community Engagement in Health Innovation hosts the Speak Up for Better Health Awards to celebrate the everyday people who make our health system more equitable and responsive.

These are incredible individuals who are using their voices to make our health system more just and equitable — especially for people most hurt by our health system today.

The fourth annual Speak Up for Better Health Awards sought the nominations of people who:
  • Brought COVID-19 testing, diagnosis, treatment, and vaccination resources to underserved neighborhoods and populations — particularly communities of color.
  • Launched or led grassroots efforts to educate and engage their health system on community needs, particularly related to historical and structural racism in health care.
  • Advocated for action from health systems on the social determinants of health, like affordable housing, better transportation services, or greater food security in low-income communities.
  • Pushed for education and resources to help people avoid and overcome crushing medical debt.