Liesl Hargens is a 2007 graduate of the epidemiology program and a passionate global health care leader with more than 20 years of experience in strategy and market access in medical device, hospital, clinic, and payer environments. Hargens currently serves as the vice president of the SPH Alumni Society Board of Directors, and volunteers on the SPH 75th Anniversary Planning Committee and the Opioid Work Group. She has also served as a mentor in the award-winning SPH Mentor Program and as a guest speaker in SPH classes.
What is your favorite part of volunteering with SPH?
My favorite part of volunteering at SPH is having the opportunity to engage and learn from other alumni, staff, faculty, and students, while leveraging my experience to help drive the mission of the SPH Alumni Society Board of Directors. Volunteering on the board has given me a sense of connection to the school, the field of public health, and other people passionate about advancing better health for all. And, being on the board is fun!
Why did you decide to volunteer with SPH?
I’ve always served on non-profit boards so when the opportunity to serve on the board was brought to my attention, I thought it might be a good fit. Serving on the board has surpassed my expectations, with opportunities to help plan the 75th anniversary for SPH, engage with the public health community to advance understanding of the opioid epidemic through the President’s Platform, and help the school think about future growth and sustainability.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering with SPH?
Do it! Volunteer in any way and capacity that makes sense for you. It can be as small as volunteering to help with a one-time event, or a larger commitment like being a part of a committee, a mentor, or on the SPH Alumni Board. It is more rewarding than the effort required of you.
What advice would you offer to your fellow alums?
My advice is to think about your skill set and what you may want to grow or leverage that may not be a part of your current employment or network. This will help direct you to the volunteering opportunity that will be the best fit. SPH provides myriad and varying opportunities to participate, share your expertise, and grow.
The School of Public Health boasts extraordinary volunteers who help advance our mission and values. Our volunteers serve on boards and committees, mentor current students, serve as guest lecturers, and so much more. Our volunteer spotlight series highlights the incredible contributions these individuals are making to SPH. Know an amazing volunteer at SPH? Submit their name and brief description of why they should be highlighted to sph-alum@umn.edu to be considered for a future spotlight.
