This summer, while preparing the latest edition of the SJSU CHHS Impact Report, I found myself reflecting on the word "impact"—a term central to our mission, yet one we may often overlook. Derived from the Latin impingere, meaning "to push into," the word "impact" resonates profoundly across our College. This report highlights just a sampling of how our faculty, staff, students, and alumni are making a substantial, measurable impact within the health care and human services fields.

At the College of Health and Human Sciences (CHHS), "impact" is not a passive term. It encapsulates both the immediate, tangible results of our excellent classroom instruction and educational programs, as well as the long-term ripple effects reverberating through individuals, communities, and society. Our graduates don’t just enter the workforce; they emerge as leaders, poised to implement best practices, spark innovation, and drive systemic change. Within these pages, you will witness the wide-ranging influence of our faculty’s work—in classrooms, clinics, and laboratories.

Our commitment transcends the confines of SJSU. A prime example is our newly funded Broaden and Build initiative, designed to create a dynamic pipeline into health and mental health professions. This initiative exemplifies our proactive approach to addressing critical workforce needs while promoting diversity and equity in these essential fields.

The concept of "impact" at CHHS also extends to groundbreaking research and knowledge production. Our faculty’s discoveries and innovations are not confined to academic journals; they have the potential to revolutionize policies, transform clinical practices, and dramatically improve population health outcomes. In this report, you will read about faculty securing competitive NIH funding to tackle pressing mental health challenges, leading interdisciplinary teams to develop pioneering health technologies, and mentoring students in their labs—nurturing the next generation of health researchers. The outcomes of their work are transformative, from technological advancements to refined best practices and policies that promote health and social equity.

Ultimately, the lasting legacy of CHHS’s work lies in its real-world benefits to individuals and communities. Through education, research, and professional training, we ensure that knowledge is not merely theoretical but actively translated into action. This is impact in its truest form—catalyzing a healthier, more equitable society where the well-being of individuals and communities continues to flourish.