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From a Chance Encounter to Community Impact: How the Tat Siblings Sparked a Health Movement at the Healthier Texas Summit 

“The Healthier Texas Summit was a fantastic experience. Over several days, we joined multiple sessions, inspired students on how to enter STEAM education and careers, and met incredible people doing amazing work.”

For Nathan, Vivian, and Candise Tat, three siblings and co-leads of Taking Our Best Shot (TOBS) the Healthier Texas Summit wasn’t just another conference. It was the start of a meaningful collaboration that would ripple out far beyond the event itself. 

While attending the Summit, Vivian had an encounter with Jessica Matos, Assistant Director of Moore Memorial Public Library in Texas City. That introduction sparked a powerful idea and led to a community-wide health initiative. 

“When we were attending an Healthier Texas event, Vivian had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Jessica Matos. As we made introductions regarding our program… we gradually launched ‘Taking Our Best Shot at Health Conversations’ (TOBS at Health Conversations).” 

This seminar series became a platform for medical students and health professionals to practice vital communication skills while educating the public on important health topics. “TOBS at Health Conversations are free and accessible to the public,” they added. 

The partnership that began at the Healthier Texas Summit grew into a celebrated, community-centered effort that has been recognized by several institutions. “We have been grateful to receive several distinctions such as being recognized by the City of Texas City, Sigma Xi Scientific Honor Society – Rice University & Texas Medical Center Poster Symposium, and the UTMB Award for Excellence in Service.”

Key Takeaways from the Healthier Texas Summit  

The Tat siblings also reflected on a major takeaway from the event:
“One key takeaway is how essential it is to have a team possessing cross-disciplinary backgrounds across science, medicine, public health, and community engagement. This is reflected by our backgrounds and those of our team members in TOBS.” 

Their journey from attendees to changemakers is a testament to what’s possible when people from across sectors unite to build a healthier Texas. 

“With the Healthier Texas Summit, we were inspired and supported by incredible attendees from multiple areas of expertise and knowledge. When we returned home, we brought this energy with us into our community and interactions.” 

Whether giving presentations, launching student challenges, or partnering with local libraries, the TOBS team continues to expand their reach and their impact. And it all started with a conversation at the Summit. 

“A fortuitous conversation hosted by Healthier Texas has led to an incredible partnership.”

When asked how what advice they would give to someone who is considering attending the Healthier Texas Summit this year the Tat siblings said, “Come with an open mind!”

“There are so many different sessions to choose from, and we’re grateful for our supportive audience members. We first learned about the Healthier Texas Summit from Vivian’s mentor, Dr. Rachelle Chiang, and she even joined our session!” the Tat Siblings shared.

Don’t forget to explore Austin while you’re there!

“Also, take the opportunity to explore UT Austin (Vivian’s alma mater) and the city! There’s so much food on Guadalupe Street (Guad) like Coco’s Cafe, the turtle pond at UT Austin is a nice location, and of course, the Tower is an iconic symbol of the Longhorn campus. Our team celebrated our hard work with ice-cream custards at Andy’s Custards before kicking off a “TOBS’ at STEAM Paths” event the next day!”

What’s next for TOBS? 

“We are excited to continue connecting with fellow change-makers and members of our community to enhance the health of our society! Building upon the foundations of “‘TOBS’ at Health Conversations”, we organized “‘TOBS’ at OLLI”, in which budding health professionals and scientists had the opportunity to present on topics ranging from mental health to cancer prevention to dental care.

“We also hosted our fourth Infographic Challenge with Ms. Avni Kantawala at Westwood High School! In addition, our team had the privilege of presenting at UTMB’s Research Day and Delta Omega’s Professional Development Career Webinar.”

Be Part of the Next Great Connection!

Stories like the Tat siblings’ are exactly why the Healthier Texas Summit exists—to inspire, connect, and empower public health leaders across Texas. Don’t miss your chance to spark your own impact. Join us October 2-3 in Austin!

Register now and save with early bird pricing through July 14!