In the July session of Hot Topics in Practice, presenters Mara McKown, MPH, MSW, an Evaluator and Epidemiologist in the State of Alaska’s Section of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, and Stephanie Smith, MFA, NCG, the Program Manager for the Dementia Education and Prevention Program in the State of Alaska’s Division of Public Health, will share stories from their work on this interactive educational outreach program. By viewing this webinar, participants will explore how such programs help shift focus from fear and toward empowerment and action.

Learning Objectives

  • Identify key modifiable risk factors for dementia and the public’s current perception on the risk factors for dementia.
  • Demonstrate how low-barrier, interactive tools  – such as the dot poll – can be used to educate and engage the public on sensitive or stigmatized health topics.
  • Explain practical communication strategies and talking points that reduce stigma and promote public health messaging around disease prevention in community settings.

Intended Audiences

  • Local, state, and tribal public health practitioners
  • Community organizers, social workers, public safety and tribal justice professionals

Presenters

Mara McKown, MPH, MSW
Epidemiologist
Alaska Department of Health

Stephanie Smith, MFA, NCG
Program Manager
Alaska Department of Health

Resources

  • Slides will be provided during the live webinar

Continuing Education Credits

Up to 1 CPH recertification credit may be earned by viewing this webinar. Visit the National Board of Public Health Examiners to learn more.

Date: 
July 28, 2026
Air Date: 
Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 12:00 pm PDT
Topics: 
Communication
Format: 
Webinar
Duration: 
1 hour
Cost: 
Free
Series: 
Hot Topics in Practice
Competency Domains: 
Communication Skills
Policy Development/Program Planning Skills