WELCOME

It has been my privilege to be associated with the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, for three decades. In my role first as Director of a large clinical program serving teens, then Director of the Division of Adolescent Reproductive Health, and now holder of the Marion Howard Chair in Adolescent Reproductive Health. I have been fortunate to have been invited to speak and train in forty-two states and internationally. What I continue to find is that adolescents throughout the world have much in common as they struggle to become adults in societies that often do not recognize or support their needs as young male and females.

My life's work has been, and continues to be, to change policies, improve practices, create new service delivery models, and innovate programs that make a difference in the lives of adolescents in the area of reproductive health. While much has been accomplished, much remains to be done. There are still too many barriers to giving teens information that could help them make wise health decisions. Pervasive social influences, like the media, continue to promote risky health behaviors. There is a confusing disconnect between the promotion of established sexual values and the actual attitudes and behaviors of many adults. Complex issues associated with gender are mostly ignored. Services needed by youth are often fragmented and not teen-friendly. Basic needs of young people go unmet. In response, the Jane Fonda Center is developing better ways to assist today's youth, including creative uses of emerging technologies.

Jane Fonda continually brings national and international attention to important issues affecting youth, women, and families. Now, through her generosity to Emory University, the strong tradition of adolescent reproductive health leadership and service in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics is being strengthened and expanded. The Jane Fonda Center is pledged to engage in activities that have the potential for creating needed social change, empowering youth to make healthy transitions to adulthood, and enhancing delivery of direct services to youth. We encourage you to join with us and with Jane Fonda in a committment to this vital work.

Marion Howard PhD
Professor and Holder:
Marion Howard Chair in
Adolescent Reproductive Health