From Ballots to Better Health: Why Health Is Wealth in Every Community

Community health doesn’t begin in the doctor’s office, it begins where we live, learn, work, worship, and vote. Join us for From Ballots to Better Health, a powerful community conversation that explores how civic engagement directly shapes the social drivers of health in our neighborhoods.

This event brings together leading experts to unpack the interconnected systems, housing, education, economics, environment, and access to nutritious food, that determine whether communities thrive or struggle. Through this dynamic discussion, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how public policy, community voice, and voter participation influence long-term health outcomes.

Whether you're a community member, advocate, student, policymaker, or someone committed to equity, this event offers insight and action steps to help strengthen the health and well-being of our communities.

🎤 Featured Speakers

Dr. Nicole M. Cooper
Chief Equity & Transformation Officer, United Way of the National Capital Area
A national leader in health equity, systems transformation, and community-centered strategy.

Cantrell Dumas
Senior Researcher, Financial Regulation & Policy, Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies
An expert on race, public policy, and the economic forces shaping opportunity.

Franciel Ikeji
Nutrition Advisor, Women Advancing Nutrition Dietetics and Agriculture (WANDA)
Champion for nutrition equity, food systems, and empowering women and families through healthy food access.

🎙 Moderator

Dr. Okey Enyia
Founder & CEO, Enyia Strategies | Author, The John Henry Health Equity Playbook
Policy strategist, public health scholar, and leading voice on equity-centered health reform.