Object Type: Folder
In Folder: Oral History Collection
Khan begins his interview describing his upbringing, background and education. He provides an overview of his career and interests at the CDC and his participation in the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) at the WHO. He describes his recruitment to UNMC, his early goals, and his impressions of the young College of Public Health. Khan discusses how his evolving goals for the college include the entire state of Nebraska. He reflects on the biocontainment unit’s activation, its inclusion in GOARN, how it has caused the College of Public Health to grow, and Phil Smith’s vision for the unit. He details rural health initiatives and further elaborates on UNMC affiliates’ participation in GOARN. He discusses his book about pandemics and how it relates to COVID-19. Khan gives an historical overview of the COVID-19 pandemic, how it impacted his role as dean, and the shift to online learning. He describes the College of Public Health’s role in Nebraska related to COVID-19 including the actions of student volunteers. Khan details the role of public health officials, the affect COVID-19 had on the College of Public Health’s priorities, and the increased visibility of the college. He reflects on his public role in the media, misinformation eroding public trust, and the politicization of information. He describes his personal presence on social media and the College of Public Health’s role in vaccination protocols. Khan concludes his interview discussing symbols of COVID-19 and his career, his proudest accomplishments, his predictions for the College of Public Health as well as advice for future public health students.
