THE THOMAS FRANCIS, JR. MEDAL IN GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH

Message from SPH Dean Noreen Clark

Tuesday morning, April 12, 1955, was an unforgettable day for public health. There is an old adage that says when public health works best, it is invisible—it’s the disease you didn’t get, the accident you didn’t have, the disaster that didn’t happen. Fifty years ago today, however, public health was highly visible and indeed triumphant. As we commemorate that morning’s dramatic announcement, we should also reflect on the countless invisible ways in which public health works every day to improve the health and well-being of people worldwide.

We must remember, too, that our work is not done. Although polio has largely disappeared—and can be conquered where it has not—it continues to threaten the lives of children in the developing world. As we celebrate Dr. Francis’ achievement, then, let us rededicate ourselves to fulfilling his vision by committing our energies, talents, and resources to eradicating polio as well as tuberculosis, malaria, diarrheal disease, HIV/AIDS, and other plagues. We owe it to our children—and to Dr. Francis.