MPHC Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2026
Becoming the Healthiest State Together
The North Dakota Multi-Partner Health Collaborative (MPHC) synergizes with community members, non-profit projects, non-government projects, healthcare systems, businesses and governmental agencies to equitably enhance the health of all North Dakotans, keeping the vision of becoming the healthiest state in the nation.
A Note from MPHC’s Steering Committee
Across North Dakota, partners are coming together with a shared purpose: improving the health and well-being of every community. The MPHC continues to build momentum in 2026 by strengthening partnerships, aligning efforts and turning ideas into action.
This quarter at a glance:
170+ members engaged across four Goal Groups
Next Gen Goal Group launched in January 2026, bringing in voices ages 15–25
Stronger governance structure to support long-term impact
New tools and systems to improve communication and collaboration
Together, this work reflects a growing, statewide effort to create healthier communities—now and for the future.
Sincerely,
Dr. Carlos Miranda, MPHC Chair
Ann Fritz, MPHC Vice Chair
Goal Group Highlights
Building Community Resilience
Healthy communities are resilient communities. This group focuses on strengthening the connections and supports that help individuals and families navigate challenges and thrive.
Launch a statewide survey to better understand what resilience means to North Dakotans
Explore Family Resource Centers (FRCs) as trusted local hubs for connection and support
Advance a model centered on connection, capacity building and community-driven action
Katie Leitch, Chair, is committed to helping communities grow stronger by recognizing both strengths and opportunities for improvement, with a focus on social drivers of health.
Tim Baumann, Vice-Chair, brings a service-driven approach, working to increase awareness of resilience and provide practical tools that communities can use every day.
Cultivating Wellness
Creating healthier communities starts with prevention and strong support systems. This group partners together to address key health priorities across the state.
Lead initiatives in Healthy Relationships, Farm to School/ECE and Vaccine & Tobacco
Expand child abuse prevention and community awareness efforts
Increase access to nutritious, locally sourced foods for young children
Support vaccine confidence and reduce tobacco use through partnerships and education
Nicole Benson, Chair, focuses on bringing partners together to align efforts and strengthen impact across North Dakota.
Hannah Pavek, Vice-Chair, is passionate about supporting children and families, building connections and expanding community-based advocacy
Strengthening Workforce
A strong workforce supports strong communities. This group helps young people explore and access meaningful career opportunities in health and other high-demand fields.
Build local career pathways for students
Pilot project focuses on Stutsman County and MHA Nation, with plans to scale across North Dakota
Use tools like CareerViewXR to make career exploration interactive
Expand partnerships with schools, employers and community organizations
Jessica Siefken, Chair, brings experience in workforce safety and collaboration, with a focus on connecting young people to career opportunities while supporting prevention and well-being.
Expanding Access and Connection
Access to care is essential for good health. This group works to reduce barriers and strengthen connections to services across North Dakota.
Expand oral health programs through partnerships and community solutions
Support Community Health Workers (CHWs) who connect individuals to care and resources
Improve access in rural and underserved communities
Briana Spellerberg, Chair, is dedicated to strengthening partnerships and advancing community-centered solutions that improve access to care across the state.
Next Gen
Launched in January 2026, the Next Gen Goal Group brings together young leaders from across North Dakota to shape the future of health in their communities.
Sharing their perspectives and lived experiences
Identifying priorities that matter to their generation
Exploring leadership opportunities
Resources, Links & Important Dates
Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) Information & Updates
ND Public Health Conference - May 5-7, 2026, Bismarck, ND
For questions about the MPHC:
Contact Agnes Mason, MPHC Coordinator, at agnes@strengthennd.com.