Public Health in the Rockies 2026

Public health professionals are uniquely positioned to inform policy, yet many lack formal training in how to effectively translate information into actionable policy change. This skill-building session addresses that gap by equipping participants with practical tools to engage confidently and strategically in the policy-making process.

Grounded in an overview of the Colorado Public Health Association’s 2026 legislative priorities, this session provides both foundational knowledge and applied skill development for students, early-career professionals, and practitioners. Participants will gain clarity on the distinctions between advocacy and lobbying, including the ethical and legal considerations that guide public health engagement. Participants will also learn the basic steps of how a bill becomes law in Colorado, how ballot measures reach voters, and how to use public tools such as the Colorado General Assembly website and public lobbying information to follow policy activity and understand how policy ideas move from concept to implementation.

A central focus of the session is strategic communication, which is an essential competency for advancing public health priorities. Attendees will learn how to translate complex information into clear, compelling narratives and tailor messaging to resonate with diverse decision-makers. Emphasis will be placed on identifying policy windows, aligning messages with stakeholder priorities, and delivering concise, persuasive policy pitches in small groups.

To support skill development, participants will engage in interactive learning activities, including a policy message sorting exercise and role-playing scenarios. These hands-on components allow attendees to practice crafting and delivering policy arguments, responding to feedback, and adapting their communication approach in real time. This applied practice is designed to build both confidence and competence in policy engagement.

This session reflects public health best practices by centering evidence-informed decision-making, cross-sector collaboration, and effective communication as drivers of policy change. It aligns with the conference theme, Stronger Together: Public Health in the Heart of the Rockies, by emphasizing the collective role public health professionals play in shaping policies that improve population health outcomes.

By the end of the session, participants will be better prepared to engage in policy discussions, contribute to advocacy efforts within their organizations and communities, and translate evidence into actionable policy solutions. Ultimately, this session empowers attendees to move from data to decision-maker, strengthening their ability to “get a seat at the table” and advance impactful public health policies.