About this Event
Join the October 2026 meeting held by the University Seminar on Narrative, Health and Social Justice for a conversation with Maria Thomas, Director of Policy and Organizing at the public health nonprofit, Health in Partnership, as we discuss the role of narrative and storytelling in achieving health equity and in creating social change. As part of her presentation, she will be discussing examples from her regional work in Michigan, as well as recent national projects.
Maria Thomas is the Director of Policy and Organizing at the US-based public health nonprofit, Health in Partnership. Her work over the last two decades has spanned healthcare systems, arts/theatre organizations, movement resource hubs like Interrupting Criminalization, and global health organizations. Her work focuses on issues of racial, gender, economic and social justice, and addressing the social determinants of health, including the violence of carceral systems and their impact on communities and public health. As a multiply displaced immigrant, an internationalist and anti-imperialist commitment lies at the heart of her work and politics. Thomas has a Master's in English Literature from Oxford University, UK, and a Master of Public Administration from Columbia University.
Make sure to clarify if you plan to attend
OPTION A: 6pm talk only
OPTION B: 6pm talk AND 7:30pm Dinner
*Dinner service will be available following the seminar meeting from 7:30-8:30pm. Dinner is $30 per person ($20 for Columbia students) and payable by credit card in advance or on the day of the event (cash is not accepted).
PLEASE NOTE: All attendees who are NOT Columbia students or faculty will need to provide their name (as written on their government-issued ID) and email in order to receive an individual QR Code pass before the day of the seminar. If you are purchasing multiple tickets, please consider purchasing separate tickets with the full name and email for individual attendees.
Panelists:
Maria Thomas, Director of Policy and Organizing; Health in Partnership
Moderators:
Mario de la Cruz, (M.S.'12), Lecturer; School of Professional Studies and Associate Director, CUIMC Division of Narrative Medicine
Zahra Khan, (M.S.'19), Lecturer; Narrative Medicine Program in the School of Professional Studies
Event venue & nearby stays
Faculty House, 64 Morningside Drive, New York, United States
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