From the Nominator

"Poor health runs rife in U.S. prisons. Incarcerated people are disproportionately afflicted with chronic disease, mental illness, obesity, depression, insomnia, and suicidal ideation. Correctional officers also suffer. They experience high rates of diabetes, heart disease, mental health problems, and symptoms of PTSD. On average, they die by age 60.   

This story by UCSF Magazine writer Ariel Bleicher takes a hard look at the health crisis in U.S. prisons and spotlights a UCSF program that is trying to change prison culture from one of punishment to rehabilitation. The surprising twist is that the program, called Amend, is modeled after Norway, a place where public health is the centerpiece of criminal justice.  

When we learned about Amend--with its ingredients of prisons, public health, Scandinavia, and a force-of-nature lead character, UCSF professor Brie Williams--we knew we wanted to feature it in UCSF Magazine. UCSF is a health sciences institution with a public service mission and strong focus on health equity. Our magazine seeks to inform, inspire, and engage alumni and donors through accessible, authentic storytelling about the biomedical sciences and human health. We don’t shy away from writing about controversial issues when the story illuminates how UCSF is helping address them.  

We feel this story hits all the right notes. It humanizes a tough health problem in our society and spotlights a creative solution. It’s authentic, informative, and--with its focus on the Amend staff’s perseverance and passion--inspiring."

From the Judges

A fascinating, well-written, and human research story that wouldn’t be out of place in a commercial publication. Engaging with great examples of the impact of the research, which confronts a national issue with deep and lasting ramifications.