Our Story
Our Story
The Sumner M. Redstone Global Center for Prevention & Wellness (RGC) develops and translates knowledge into practice and policy to advance prevention and wellness in the U.S. and globally. The RGC enhances the George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health (GWSPH) leadership’s efforts to extend, expand, and accelerate the global health transformation into one that prioritizes prevention. Since its establishment in 2014 through a generous gift from the Sumner M. Redstone Charitable Foundation, RGC has advanced this mission through policy, research and advocacy; support of community-driven initiatives that promote the health of people and the planet; unwavering attention on health disparities; and the promotion of systemic change.
Under the leadership of Dr. William H. Dietz, the inaugural Chair and Director, the RGC was founded with a bold vision: to make the District of Columbia (D.C.) the healthiest capital in the world by prioritizing nutrition, physical activity, and obesity prevention. Through research, policy advocacy, and community partnerships, the Center advanced evidence-based solutions to improve public health, reduce chronic disease, and promote equitable access to healthy food and active living. Its mission centered on promoting optimal well-being for all D.C. residents, regardless of race, gender, class, ability, or neighborhood. Over the years, the RGC expanded its scope to address the global syndemic of obesity, undernutrition, and climate change, producing a seminal Lancet Commission Report in 2019. This work broadened the connection between health, climate, and systemic inequities, and strengthened the role of the RGC as a trusted leader in shaping public health policies and interventions.
On this solid foundation, the RGC’s new leadership is evolving the Center's vision and mission to emphasize equitable adaptation for communities most at risk from climate-related health hazards. This redefined focus reflects a deep commitment to research, education, and collaboration aimed at providing global communities most at risk with the tools they need to adapt and thrive amid the challenges of climate change.
Previous Work
Prior to 2025, under the direction of Dr. William H. Dietz, the Redstone Global Center focused on developing local strategies to ensure that public health was emphasized in the District's climate and health policies. This work included promoting sustainable food systems and healthy communities through design and investments in the built environment to prevent chronic diseases. Past efforts also included numerous testimonies to the District's local government departments, policy papers, and reports to influence sustainable food procurement, park management, and road pricing strategies.
Explore the Annual Reports below to learn more about the Center's past work and impact:
