Over 600 ANHE Members in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee are working to protect our patients, families, and communities from environmental harm and create healthy communities for current and future generations. We host events, share information about what’s going on, and create opportunities for nurses to talk to their legislators and each other about all things environmental health.
What We’re Working On
Tell Georgia Members of Congress: Save Cleaner Energy to Protect Our Children
The benefits of cleaner energy are obvious: less pollution, cleaner air, a more stable climate, well-paying jobs in our communities, and fewer health risks for our children. As Georgia continues to face increasing threats from intensifying heat waves, hurricanes, and flooding, we must support the transition to solar, wind, and other renewable energies by preserving existing federal clean energy tax credits.
Tell NC Lawmakers: Our Families Want Cleaner Energy, Not Higher Electricity Bills
The North Carolina General Assembly cannot afford to take our state a step backward on climate progress by eliminating the state requirement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 70% by 2030 and incentivizing the buildout of new polluting gas power plants. This legislation would lead to higher electricity bills, health harms, and climate instability.
Climate + Health Peer Learning Circle, 2025
Raise your health voice and make an impact! Join a dynamic community of health leaders dedicated to driving climate action and creating lasting change.
The Climate Advocacy Lab’s Climate + Health Peer Learning Circle is a free training program designed for experienced leaders at the intersection of climate and health. This regional initiative combines in-person workshops and virtual sessions to foster peer learning and collaboration. Participants will refine their leadership skills, gain strategies for community engagement, and exchange insights with a network of accomplished peers. If you’re ready to amplify your impact and drive systemic change, this program will equip you with the tools and connections to lead transformative climate action.
The health impacts of climate change are undeniable—and the time to act is now. As a health professional, you have the power to protect human health and inspire change.
Meet Your South East Regional Forum Organizer
Dr. Cheryl L. Kovar PhD, RN, CNS, CPH (she, her)
Dr. Kovar is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nursing Science for East Carolina University. She is an advanced practice nurse with over 25 years working in the public health sector at the local, state, and national levels in various leadership roles. She is an active member of the PHN section for APHA as well as serves on the North Carolina Alliance for Public Health Agencies (NCAPHA) which is a statewide workforce development board. She has conducted extensive research in the areas of public health practice, reproductive/sexual health, and adolescent high risk behavior. Dr. Kovar has published in peer review journals and is recognized as a national speaker on topics related to reproductive/sexual health in adolescent and young adults and public health leadership. She is the first faculty member at the College of Nursing (CON) to have her certification in public health (CPH). In addition, she is the only nurse from the CON to be appointed to serve as a scientific member of ECU’s University Medical Campus IRB’s Social and Behavioral IRB committee, and an alternate to the Biomedical IRB committee.
Contact Cheryl at kovarc15@ecu.edu
Highlights
Join the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments on June 4, 2025, at the Emory Conference Center in Atlanta, GA, for a half-day, in-person symposium for health professionals. This event will explore how historic investments in clean energy and climate action are already creating healthier, more sustainable communities.
Investments in clean energy, climate resilience, and pollution reduction are directly improving air quality, expanding access to zero-emission transportation, and strengthening public health. At this symposium, expert speakers will highlight how these initiatives are already making an impact in local Georgia communities and share real-world case studies and success stories. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how nurses and health professionals can support and amplify this progress at the state and community level.
Designed to empower and inspire, this event will provide the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to lead in advancing health-centered climate solutions and shaping a more equitable, sustainable future for all.
All health professionals and students are welcome! This course is pending approval by the California Board of Registered Nurses, Provider Number CEP17198. Included in the registration fee is lunch (buffet-style catering) and hors d’oeuvres plus 1 complementary bar ticket for those 21 years and older at the reception. View program details here.