Walter Ricciardi: vision, inspiration and leadership in European public health.

Abstract

EUPHA has undergone a remarkable transition over the past few years. It has a new and exciting strategy to promote and strengthen European public health, has become a major player in the European health policy arena, with strong links to major European institutions including the European Commission, European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and World Health Organization, and is much more engaged with the global public health community, especially the World Public Health Association. Its internal structures have been completely overhauled and its annual conference has gone from strength to strength, now under the auspices of a new foundation created to streamline its organization, provide financial transparency and ensure long-term sustainability. Its overall visibility is much greater, in print, broadcast and social media. These achievements owe an enormous amount to our outgoing president, Walter Ricciardi, who has stepped down after an unprecedented 4 years at the helm. Walter’s most obvious attribute is his vision. Like many of us, he recognizes the numerous challenges that …