School of Public Health

Dean Ashish Joshi Honored with WGES Global™ NOVA Award 2026

Saturday, 10 October 2026

The University of Memphis School of Public Health (UofM SPH) is pleased to announce that SPH dean and distinguished professor, Dr. Ashish Joshi, was a recipient of the 2026 WGES NOVA Award. Dean Joshi was honored alongside distinguished international leaders recognized for their contributions to public health, sustainability, innovation, and environmental stewardship. The event took place on October 6-8, 2026, in Athens, Greece.

"I am humbled and thankful to the organizing committee of the WGES Global NOVA for this recognition. I am grateful to be among the esteemed individuals and with all my humility, and gratitude express my thanks to all those who have contributed to my journey," remarked Dean Joshi.

Dr. Joshi is widely recognized for advancing innovative approaches that strengthen communities by integrating population health informatics, digital health, education, sustainability, and global collaboration. As the creator of the SMAART model (Sustainable, Multisector, Accessible, Affordable, Reimbursable, and Tailored), he has championed efforts to translate research and innovation into practical, community-based solutions that improve health outcomes and promote healthier, more resilient communities.

His leadership has also led to the development of the Public Health Diplomacy Lab, an initiative designed to foster collaboration among individuals, institutions, and nations to address shared public health challenges through education, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

As part of the symposium, Dr. Joshi joined Professor Georgios Zakynthinos, Professor in the Laboratory of Safety, Technology, and Development of Functional Foods & Health-Protective Products in Public Health at the University of West Attica, and Dr. Reginald Swift, Chief Scientist of TheraSyn Bio, Inc., to present Executive Master Class I: Public Health, Digital Health & Healthy Communities. The session explored the intersection of environmental quality, healthy buildings, biotechnology, digital health, artificial intelligence and community resilience, with a focus on how these emerging fields can work together to improve health outcomes and enhance quality of life across diverse populations.

WGES Global™ is a premier international symposium dedicated to advancing sustainability and clean energy through collaboration among industry leaders, government officials, innovators, researchers, and investors. The annual event serves as a platform for sharing ideas, fostering partnerships and recognizing individuals whose work is driving positive change worldwide.

To learn more about the WGES Global™ Symposium and NOVA Awards 2026, visit WGES Global™.

Video: Dean Ashish Joshi’s Award Speech

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The Office of Communications at The University of Memphis School of Public Health