title: Recognizing Excellence in Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Epidemiology: The 2014 National MCH Epidemiology Awards.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The impact of programs, policies, and practices developed by professionals in the field of maternal and child health (MCH) epidemiology is highlighted biennially by 16 national MCH agencies and organizations, or the Coalition for Excellence in MCH Epidemiology.
  
  
  METHODS
  In September 2014, multiple leading agencies in the field of MCH partnered to host the national CityMatCH Leadership and MCH Epidemiology Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The conference offered opportunities for peer exchange; presentation of new scientific methodologies, programs, and policies; dialogue on changes in the MCH field; and discussion of emerging MCH issues relevant to the work of local, state, and national MCH professionals. During the conference, the National MCH Epidemiology Awards were presented to individuals, teams, institutions, and leaders for significantly contributing to the improved health of women, children, and families.
  
  
  RESULTS
  During the conference, the Coalition presented seven deserving health researchers and research groups with national awards in the areas of advancing knowledge, effective practice, outstanding leadership, young professional achievement, and lifetime achievement. The article highlights the accomplishments of these national-level awardees.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Recognition of deserving professionals strengthens the field of MCH epidemiology, and sets the standard for exceptional research, mentoring, and practice.
authors.affiliation: National MCH Epidemiology Awards Selection Committee, Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology Program, Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy NE, MS F-74, Atlanta, GA, 30341-3717, USA. ckroelinger@cdc.gov.
authors.forename: Charlan D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: Kroelinger
authors.affiliation: Maternal and Child Health Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, 5600 Fishers Lane 18-23, Rockville, MD, 20857, USA.
authors.forename: Catherine J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Vladutiu
authors.affiliation: Maternal and Child Health Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, 5600 Fishers Lane 18-23, Rockville, MD, 20857, USA.
authors.forename: Jessica R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Jones
mesh_terms: D001363:Awards and Prizes; D002648:Child; D002669:Child Welfare; D003226:Congresses as Topic; D006801:Humans; D008429:Maternal Welfare
keywords: Maternal and child health epidemiology; National awards; Perinatal epidemiology