Future MCH Leaders Develop Policy Solutions at 4th Annual MCH Policy Workshop
November 9, 2026
On October 23, the Emory Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Center of Excellence hosted the 4th Annual Fall MCH Policy Workshop in partnership with Morehouse School of Medicine’s Center for Maternal Health Equity, Georgia State University, the University of Georgia, Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia, and Georgia Watch. The full-day event brought together students, faculty, community organizations, and state policymakers to collaborate on advancing maternal and child health equity across Georgia.
The event was hosted at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health, with 50 students across 5 institutions.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Policy Development
Students from participating universities worked in interdisciplinary teams to develop policy pitches focused on pressing maternal and child health issues. Drawing on perspectives from across institutions and disciplines, students explored potential policy solutions to address issues in:
- Fertility and reproductive justice
- Medicaid eligibility
- Foster care
- Dental community collaborative practices
- Paid leave
Throughout the workshop, students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Georgia’s maternal and child health policy landscape while developing recommendations to address current challenges facing families and communities.
Guidance From Community and Advocacy Partners
Students received mentorship, guidance, and feedback from representatives of community and advocacy organizations, including:
- Georgia Budget and Policy Institute
- Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia
- Georgia Watch
- SisterSong
- Center for Reproductive Rights
- Voices for Georgia’s Children
- EmpowerMEnt
- Georgia Dental Hygienist Association
- 9to5
These partners shared their expertise and perspectives on maternal and child health priorities in Georgia, helping students strengthen their policy proposals and consider opportunities for implementation and advocacy.
Engagement With State Legislators
The workshop culminated in student policy presentations to State Senator Kay Kirkpatrick (District 32), Representative Jasmine Clark (District 108), and Representative-Elect Timoria McQueen Saba (District 68). Legislators heard students’ recommendations and provided valuable perspectives on the policymaking process and opportunities to advance maternal and child health priorities at the state level.
Looking Ahead
The Emory MCH Center of Excellence extends its appreciation to the university partners, community organizations, mentors, and state legislators who contributed their time and expertise to this year’s workshop. By bringing together students and leaders, the annual workshop continues to create opportunities for the next generation of maternal and child health professionals to engage in policy development and advocacy.
