1800 Registrants for Third Conference on Closing the Health Gap
On April 12, Cinergy Convention Center became an environment filled with hope and
opportunity as 1800 people participated in the Third Conference on Closing the Health
Gap. The day was packed with information and action items for conference attendees.
They were motivated by an impressive slate of nationally recognized speakers. More
than 200 volunteers assisted people throughout the day as they attended workshops,
demonstrations and a variety of health screenings. The conference began with a reception
on April 11, 2006. More than 200 guests welcomed four new health leaders to the
Greater Cincinnati community.
-
Dr. Noble A.W. Maseru, Health Commissioner, Cincinnati Health Department
-
Dr. Reuven Pasternak, Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer, Health
Alliance
-
Dr. Leonard M. Randolph, Chief Medical Officer, Mercy Health Partners
-
Dr. David Stern, Dean, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
The evening event led to a conference that exceeded the expectations of all who
attended.
Keynote Speakers Empower Audience
Dr. James Gavin, a nationally renowned expert on diabetes, served as opening speaker
for the conference. He artfully used wit and humor to deliver a compelling message
about the seriousness of diabetes and how obesity is a major contributing factor
to the onset of the disease. Dr. Gavin shared photos and statistics highlighting
the disproportionate impact diabetes is having on the African-American and Latino
populations. Dr. Marilyn Gaston, former Assistant Surgeon General for the U.S.,
opened the luncheon session with Kirk Franklin’s “Revolution.” Gaston stated, “
It’s time for a revolution on the rising costs and quality of health care in minority and low-income communities of our country.” She told the audience that collectively
the community could confront the growing health disparities plaguing our country.
The final keynote address was presented by Susan Taylor, Editorial Director for
Essence Magazine. Susan inspired the audience with an uplifting message: To thrive
in all relationships you must take personal responsibility for yourself first.