Turning Numbers into Narratives: Public Health Professionals Build Data Storytelling Skills

On September 25, 2025, 40 public health professionals, students, university faculty, and community members gathered for an engaging and hands-on Storytelling with Data: Core Workshop.

In today's data-rich world, public health professionals are often tasked with translating complex information into insights that inspire action. This workshop, based on the internationally recognized Storytelling with Data methodology, provided attendees with practical tools to do just that. Through interactive exercises and real-world examples, participants learned how to identify key messages, choose the right visuals, apply design best practices, and use storytelling techniques to better engage their audiences and drive decisions.

The diverse group of attendees - ranging from seasoned public health leaders to emerging student professionals - brought a wide range of perspectives and experiences to the session. The collaborative environment fostered rich discussion and peer learning, reinforcing the value of cross-sector engagement in public health communication.

For many rural public health agencies, this training filled a critical gap. Unlike larger urban departments, rural agencies often operate without dedicated communications or data visualization staff. Public health professionals in these settings wear many hats - balancing program delivery, community engagement, and reporting responsibilities - often with limited resources.

Hosted in partnership with the Faribault, Martin & Watonwan Counties Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (FMW SHIP), the workshop was part of a broader effort to build capacity across Minnesota's rural public health system. It ensured that even in the most resource-limited settings, professionals are equipped to turn numbers into narratives that matter.

As public health continues to evolve - especially in rural areas—the ability to communicate data effectively is more important than ever. Whether advocating for funding, informing policy, or engaging the public, clear and compelling data storytelling is a powerful tool for change.

"This workshop was incredibly valuable," one rural participant shared. "We don't have a communications team, so learning how to present data more clearly and persuasively is a skill I can use immediately."

CRPHI Participant