National Public Health Week

Step into April 2026 with wellness in mind! Here are all the ways you can get involved this month.

Students walking down sidewalk.

Click to jump down to full calendar of events

National Public Health Week 2026: April 6-12

National Public Health Week.

Ready. Set. Action! is this year’s theme. As we celebrate, take a moment to recognize how public health has improved our daily lives, safeguarded our families, expanded our life spans and strengthened our communities. This week is also a chance to honor the public health workers who show up for us every day — and to advocate for policies and practices that promote good health for all. For more about this national movement check out nphw.org.

Step Challenge: April 1 to 30

Step Challenge.

One step at a time.

The UB Step Challenge is returning in 2026 with fresh energy and plenty of motivation to keep you moving. Open to the UB and WNY communities, this free challenge turns everyday steps into a shared journey toward better health.

Occupational Therapy Month

I Heart OT month.

The American Occupational Therapy Association celebrates OT Month in April and the more than 213,000 occupational therapists, OT assistants and students who help create fuller lives for clients and their families.

Full Calendar of Events

Friday, March 27

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Hayes Hall 402 | South Campus

“Breast Cancer Epidemiology From Etiology to Prediction for Prevision Prevention” will be presented by Graham Colditz, MD, DrPH.

Wednesday, April 1

10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Harriman Ballroom | South Campus

Get your resume and CV in top shape! Meet with employers for one-on-one resume and CV critiques and tips tailored to healthcare careers.

12-1 p.m. | Online

Kyler Knapp, PhD, looks at the everyday social and emotional things that can either make recovery harder or easier, then uses that data to create a plan to avoid slipping back into substance use.

1-1:30 p.m. | BEB/Harriman Courtyard | South Campus

We encourage everyone of all ages to get out and stretch their legs and get their hearts pumping. Walk where you are or join us for a stroll.

Thursday, April 2

11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Harriman Hall | South Campus

Stop by to learn about National Public Health Week and pick up your bingo card for a chance to win prizes!

Friday, April 3

11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Student Union | North Campus

Stop by to learn about National Public Health Week and pick up your bingo card for a chance to win prizes!

Monday, April 6

9-9:45 a.m. | Online

Join from the comfort of your home. This session will blend mindful movement and gentle strength work to help you feel refreshed and aligned.

4-6 p.m. | Big Ditch Brewing Company, 55 E. Huron Street, Buffalo, NY 14203

Let’s celebrate, network and support public health! Bring a donation to the Gown Every Graduate drive, and have a drink on us.

Tuesday, April 7

12-1 p.m. | Hayes Hall 403 | South Campus

Join Marissa Robinson, DrPH, MPH, a nationally recognized public health leader whose work bridges research, policy and community action to advance health equity in underserved communities.

6-7 p.m. | O'Brian Hall 104 | North Campus

Connect with public health professionals and explore the possibilities in the field. From policy and data analysis to research and community health, learn how your skills can make an impact.

Wednesday, April 8

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Harriman Ballroom | South Campus

Calling all Healthcare, Public Health, Life + Lab Sciences students! Join us and connect with recruiters looking for skilled UB graduates for full-time positions and internship opportunities.

12-1 p.m. | Online

Join Jacob McPherson, PhD, DPT, and Janice Tona, PhD, to learn more about the UB Long COVID Recovery Center.

4-5 p.m. | Clark Hall 105 | South Campus

Learn what Hands-Only CPR is and how to give it, along with AED awareness in this non-certification presentation and hands-on demonstration.

6-7 p.m. | Natural Sciences Complex 215 | North Campus

Participate in an interactive egg hunt and learn about sex-ed facts.

Thursday, April 9

10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Harriman Ballroom | South Campus

Donate blood with ConnectLife to ensure a safe and reliable blood supply for patients in need. Appointments encouraged, walk-ins welcome.

4-6:30 p.m. | Center for Tomorrow | North Campus

Join us for poster presentations and cultural performances, with a video address by Maria Lenor (Leni) Gerona Robredo, 14th Vice President of the Philippines.

Friday, April 10

8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. | Center for the Arts | North Campus

Explore climate and environmental challenges while advancing sustainable solutions in Asia and other vulnerable regions.

Saturday, April 11

9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Farber Hall 135 | South Campus

Learn how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults.

Wednesday, April 15

This 24 hour giving event challenges all Bulls to show their True Blue spirit by giving back. There will be some amazing prize opportunities as well as numerous matches and challenges available for you to maximize your impact!

Thursday, April 16

4:30-6:30 p.m. | Farber Hall 135 | South Campus

"Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Stroke Rehab: Evidence, Impact, and Real-World Application. What YOU need to know" will be presented by Teresa Jacobson Kimberley, PT, PhD, FAPTA.

Thursday, April 23

1-3 p.m. | Harriman Ballroom | South Campus

Students will present their research findings, answer questions and meet with their colleagues to discuss next steps in their research.

Additional Resources

Find organizations that can help you throughout Buffalo and Western New York.