UofM SPH Dean Launches PH CARES Changemakers Initiative to Spark Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship

September 15, 2025 – The University of Memphis School of Public Health has launched its inaugural PH CARES Changemakers initiative to drive student innovation and stimulate entrepreneurial solutions to real‑world public health challenges facing our communities. 

Dean Ashish Joshi, a strong advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship, proposed a challenge to UofM SPH students: think outside the box, be creative, and ask yourselves, “What change can you make?” 

At the informational session, Dean Joshi outlined the guidelines of the initiative, emphasizing that there are no limits to ideas. Students were encouraged to include technological components in their solutions—such as data visualization tools, digital health platforms, podcasts, blogs, etc. 

Twenty mini‑grants of up to $750 each have been earmarked as seed funding to help SPH students kickstart their projects. Applications are due October 5, 2025. 

Selected students will join a six‑month cohort offering workshops and support to develop and implement their concepts. Final presentations will provide students with the opportunity to showcase their projects, build soft skills and foster teamwork and problem solving. 

To learn more click on PH CARES Changemakers initiative.

Ashish Joshi, Ph.D., MBBS, MPH Dean and Distinguished University Professor at the launch of initiative, PH-CARES Changemakers