January 19 Event – Finding Common Ground on Climate: It’s About Health, A Panel Discussion with Former VT Gov Howard Dean

Former VT Governor Howard Dean will participate in a panel discussion moderated by NH State Senator/Dr Tom Sherman on how policy makers, elected officials, and frankly all healthcare workers can most effectively message climate and health based on current climate communications research.

NH State Rep/Dr William Marsh and NH former State Rep Polly Champion RN will be panel members, as will Dr. Edward Maibach, University Professor and Director of George Mason’s Center for Climate Change Communication and Dr Robert Gould, Strategic Communications Director of the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health.

Governor Howard Dean is a Senior Advisor in the Public Policy and Regulation practice at Dentons. He focuses on health care, education and energy issues, as well as providing expertise derived from his extensive experience in public office.

A recognized thought-leader in health care reform, Governor Dean works with clients to navigate complicated regulations and political challenges in both the private and public sectors. Through partnering industry with business and community interests he is at the forefront of promoting high quality and affordable health care while supporting innovation. Respected for his fiscally moderate policies as Governor, he understands first-hand the severe budget constraints that are challenging state and municipal governments. With an extensive set of contacts nationally, Governor Dean is uniquely positioned to develop partnerships between industry stakeholders and local governments. Governor Dean comes to Dentons after serving as Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, where he created and implemented the “50 State Strategy”, encouraging the cultivation of candidates in every state at every level, rather than solely the traditionally democratic-leaning states. Governor Dean began his life in politics in 1982 when he was elected to the Vermont State Legislature. He transitioned from a practicing physician to a full-time career in public service when he became Governor of Vermont in 1991. Governor Dean raised his profile in the state, culminating in 12 years of service as Vermont’s governor – the second longest serving in Vermont’s history. He was known for his fiscal responsibility as well as his efforts in health care reform. Respected on both sides of the political aisle, Governor Dean served as chairman of the National Governors’ Association, the Democratic Governors’ Association, as well as the New England Governors’ Conference while serving as Governor. Governor Dean left office in Vermont to run for President in 2003 where he implemented innovative fundraising strategies such as use of the internet, pioneering techniques used by both parties in the 2008 election.

This event is co-sponsored by the Vermont Climate and Health Alliance, New Hampshire Medical Society, NH Public Health Association, NH Nurses Association, and the NH Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers.