It’s easy to get lost in numbers in the field of epidemiology. How many are sick? How many are at risk? How many died? How many people need to be treated to eliminate a disease? These are important issues to tackle professionally, but it’s equally important to learn the personal stories and circumstances of the individuals behind the indicators. We need an understanding of the social, cultural and political contexts behind the numbers if we are to take action. This sermon will be an exploration of how faith has informed Charlotte’s career over the past twenty years, taking her beyond the numbers to a deeper understanding of the people affected by infectious disease.

Charlotte Colvin, Ph.D., is a public health expert who does fieldwork in East and Southern Africa. She’s also an active Episcopalian lay leader. (Charlotte and Rev. Erika received their first Master’s degrees together 22 years ago!)