Letter from the President and CEO August 2024

Dear Reader,

Like many, I find it inspiring and hopeful to witness the world's greatest athletes competing on the world stage at the 2024 Summer Olympics. Every four years, as we learn the stories of the incredible competitors representing their respective countries, we are reminded of the value of perseverance and the indomitable flame of the human spirit.

This year, I am experiencing the Olympics as a kind of balm of togetherness that transcends the woes of the usual news cycle. Even from afar, one can feel the buzz of people from all over the world gathered together to celebrate human excellence. Look no further than the South Sudanese men's basketball team, representing a war-torn country that didn't exist 14 years ago as they go toe-to-toe with our US team. Or, read about Rebeca Andrade, the Brazilian gymnast raised by her single mother in a favela with seven siblings, now competing under the brightest lights in the world.

Incredibly, one doesn't have to win Olympic gold to feel the energies of inspiration, perseverance, teamwork, and a shared recognition of humanity. These are things we all have access to. As our friend and teacher, Dr. Lisa Miller, puts it, "Spirituality is a birthright."

Part of the Institute's work involves reminding people of this birthright—this incredible resource we all have the capacity to exercise through our faith traditions, inner reflection, community, and so many other ways. In late July, for example, the Institute held several Mind-Body Skills workshops in the wake of Hurricane Beryl. Over 40 people were brought together to engage in healing and learning as we overcome the most recent natural disaster in our region.

Next week, we are proud to announce that the Institute's FaithHealth Project Coordinator, Mojisola Delano, will head to New Orleans with our colleagues and collaborators, Serena Valentine and Shamyra Woods-Elliott, to present at the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists National Conference. Their work, featuring the Faith & Diabetes Initiative as a case example, will highlight how community-based health education can bolster trust amongst populations that experience mistrust in health systems. Again, connection through community.

How are you cultivating your birthright? To learn about our upcoming activities, read through this newsletter and explore our website. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Warmly,
Stuart

Stuart Nelson
President and CEO