Shannan Piccolo, J.D., C.P.H., is one of the Senior Attorneys for the Mid-States Region who focusing on data and privacy law. Prior to joining the Network, Shannan spent over 16 years working in local government as the Civil Deputy County Attorney, Chief Deputy County Attorney, and Director of Public Health for Park County. Shannan graduated with honors from the Alexander Blewett III School of Law at the University of Montana, received a certificate in Environmental and Natural Resources Law, and served on the editorial board of the Public Lands & Resources Law Review. She also earned a Certificate in Public Health from the University of Montana School of Public and Community Health Sciences.

Articles & Resources

Q&A: What Public Health Professionals Need to Know About Public Health Education, Advocacy and Lobbying

Law & Policy InsightsMechanisms for Advancing Public HealthMechanisms for Advancing Health EquityPublic Health AuthorityAct for Public Health

May 28, 2025
by Shannan Piccolo

Public health advocacy is a core function of public health and plays a crucial role in shaping policies, raising awareness, and ensuring equitable health outcomes. Often, however, public health professionals are unsure of the legal boundaries separating these activities. In this Q&A, Shannan Piccolo, Senior Attorney for the Network for Public Health Law’s Mid-States Region, discusses key differences between public health education, advocacy, and lobbying. 

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