About VaxShield
Rooted in community.
Built on science.
VaxShield is a digital and classroom resource designed to reduce vaccine stigma by teaching the science behind infectious diseases and vaccines, in a way that is accessible, engaging, and empowering.
Our Story
Why we started VaxShield
VaxShield was founded in communities where vaccine conversations are often shaped by hesitation, historical mistrust, and rapidly spreading misinformation. The founders recognized that existing resources were either too clinical, too fear-based, or simply not reaching the people who needed them most.
The goal was never to lecture or alarm. It was to meet people where they are, with curiosity, with respect, and with tools that make complex public health science genuinely understandable and interesting.
From its roots at the University of Michigan, VaxShield has grown into a platform connecting students, educators, clinicians, and communities around a shared belief: that informed communities are healthier communities.
Our Vision
A world where every student understands how vaccines work, every community has access to honest public health education, and misinformation no longer drives decisions that affect lives.
Our Mission
To reduce vaccine stigma and misinformation through engaging, science-backed educational tools that foster curiosity, scientific literacy, and community responsibility.
What We Believe
Our core principles
Education, Not Fear
We believe in empowering people with knowledge, not alarming them. Every resource is designed to build understanding, not anxiety.
Community-Centered
VaxShield is built around the communities most affected by vaccine hesitancy, with their voices, their stories, and their needs front and center.
Science-Backed
Everything we create is grounded in public health evidence, reviewed by clinical and academic advisors, and updated as science evolves.
Empowering Youth
Young people are often left out of health conversations, yet directly affected by vaccine decisions. VaxShield puts them at the center.
Our Collaborators
Built with feedback from people who do this work
VaxShield is student-led. Along the way we have gathered feedback from public health professionals, clinicians, educators, and people at the institutions below. Their input shaped our materials; it does not represent an endorsement by their organizations.
University of Michigan
Academic home and Optimize program support
UM School of Public Health
Advisors, research collaboration, and expert review
Michigan Medicine
Clinician advisors and public health expertise
Ross Business School
Strategy and organizational development support
UM Optimize Program
Startup and nonprofit development support
Cass Clinic, Detroit
Pilot site and community healthcare partner
Ypsilanti Community Health Center
Community clinic partner
Huron High School, Ann Arbor
Curriculum testing and educator feedback
Jackson Public School System
Classroom pilot and student engagement partner
Ready to get involved?
Whether you want to partner, donate, volunteer, or bring VaxShield to your school or clinic, we want to hear from you.