DR. JOHN W. HATCH
"FLAME AWARD"

This prestigious recognition honors the visionary work of Dr. John Hatch, W.R. Kenan Jr., Professor Emeritus of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His unique contributions – including his vision, innovation, dedication, and tireless devotion to teaching, training, research, and development, as well as community engagement and his groundbreaking work with faith communities, – have significantly improved the public’s health.

Dr. Hatch ignited a movement for health justice that continues to this day, a testament to the enduring impact of his work. He helped to foster the idea that partnering with faith communities is of primary importance and that faith leaders and advocates can walk hand in hand with health professionals and healthcare systems to “create a healthier nation.” Symbolically, unlike a candle, a flame may flicker and change as ideas are lit and molded to the current environment of many social justice and health issues. Still, the core of the Flame remains constant and consistent – you cannot blow it out.