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CUNY SPH students and alumni are shaping the future of public health with exciting new roles, promotions, awards, and other professional achievements. Explore their stories below to see how they’re making a difference in communities around the world.
Are you a CUNY SPH student or alumni? Complete the Career Updates Form on Handshake to tell us about your career achievements, new roles, awards, or publications. No milestone is too small – we can’t wait to celebrate YOU!
MPH in Community Health Student
I am presenting at the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) International Conference on October 24, 2025.
Fundraising for Health Equity – Creating Collaborative Community Partnerships
This session focuses on providing attendees with the knowledge and tools to build sustainable, community-driven funding models that advance health equity. The presentation explores strategies for developing partnerships between healthcare institutions, funders, and community organizations to ensure equitable resource distribution and long-term impact.
As Senior Director of Grants and Development at Ascension in Austin, Texas, I oversee strategic fundraising initiatives that support community health programs and advance equitable access to care.
MPH in Community Health, Class of 2022
I received the NYC Mayor’s Graduate Scholarship Award.
The Mayor’s Graduate Scholarship Program (MGSP) is an opportunity for full-time New York City government employees with undergraduate degrees to pursue advanced studies at participating local colleges and universities. For over 50 years, this program has supported hundreds of City employees in furthering their education through competitive scholarships made possible by the generosity of participating institutions.
As Director of Community Outreach at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, I lead data-driven outreach strategies that strengthen clinic engagement and improve community health outcomes across New York City. I oversee the Community Engagement Unit, manage key partnerships, and coordinate initiatives that promote disease prevention and access to care.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2025
I am starting a new position as Deputy Director of the Drug Intelligence and Intervention Group (DIIG) at the New York City Department of Health, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
As Deputy Director of DIIG, I help lead efforts to monitor and respond to drug-related harms in New York City. In this role, I work across teams to analyze drug trend data, inform public health interventions, and support strategies that prevent overdose and improve health outcomes for people who use drugs.
Previously, I served as a Research Manager at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City, where I supported public health and clinical research initiatives through project oversight, data management, and team coordination.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, in partnership with the New York City Department of Health, plays a critical role in investigating deaths, monitoring emerging drug trends, and providing data that informs life-saving public health interventions across the city.
MPH in Health Policy and Management, Class of 2025
I’m celebrating a 6-month milestone in my role as Partner Success Manager at Sunbit (FinTech Dental). I secured this position in February 2025, when my employer was excited to onboard me as an upcoming MPH graduate from CUNY SPH.
As Partner Success Manager at Sunbit, I support dental practices in leveraging financial technology solutions to expand patient access to care. My role bridges healthcare administration and fintech, ensuring that practices have the tools and resources needed to provide flexible payment options and improve the patient experience.
Before joining Sunbit, I served as Practice Manager at Underbite Dental Management, where I oversaw operations and administration across practice locations in New York City.
Sunbit is a Los Angeles–based financial technology company that provides everyday financing solutions across industries, including healthcare and dental. Its mission is to make financing more transparent and accessible, helping businesses serve their communities while improving affordability for clients and patients.
MPH in Health Policy and Management Student
I am starting a new position as a Healthcare Financial Analyst at the Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA) in Boston, Massachusetts.
As a Healthcare Financial Analyst at CHIA, I will contribute to the collection, analysis, and reporting of healthcare data that informs policy and decision-making across Massachusetts. In this role, I will support efforts to improve transparency and efficiency in the healthcare system, helping policymakers, providers, and the public better understand trends in healthcare costs, utilization, and access.
Previously, I served as a Fiscal Policy Analyst with the Massachusetts House of Representatives, where I supported legislative initiatives and fiscal policy analysis to guide state budget decisions.
The Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA) is an independent Massachusetts state agency that provides objective data and analysis to promote a more transparent and cost-effective healthcare system. CHIA’s work informs policymakers, providers, and the public, advancing the state’s commitment to equitable, evidence-based healthcare reform.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2024
I am the author of a new publication.
A Descriptive Study of Career Satisfaction and Professional Trajectories of Certified Midwives and Certified Nurse-Midwives
Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, July 2025
This study compared the career trajectories and experiences of Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and Certified Midwives (CMs) who graduated from the State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University Midwifery Program between 1997 and 2019. Using a cross-sectional survey of 237 alumni, the study explored satisfaction with education pathways, role transitions, and professional experiences.
Findings revealed that CNMs and CMs reported similar career trajectories, satisfaction with preparation, and measures of success. However, CMs were more likely to report dissatisfaction with their education route due to geographic mobility limitations and to experience lower levels of professional respect in their first and most recent positions. Despite these challenges, there were no significant differences in clinical competence or perceived success between groups. Overall, the study demonstrated that CNMs and CMs have equal career success and satisfaction.
I was fortunate to be the lead statistician on this paper.
As a Research Analyst with the Bronx Health Collective at Montefiore, I contribute to public health research initiatives aimed at improving community health outcomes through data-driven analysis and evaluation.
MPH in Community Health Student
I am starting a new position as the LGBTQ+ Coalition Manager at the Neighborhood Association for Inter-Cultural Affairs (NAICA) in the Bronx.
As LGBTQ+ Coalition Manager, I lead a new community coalition dedicated to preventing substance misuse among BIPOC LGBTQ+ youth and young adults up to the age of 35. In this role, I coordinate coalition-building efforts, community partnerships, and prevention strategies to support health and equity for LGBTQ+ communities.
Previously, I served as a Community Development Specialist with the New York City Prevention Resource Center, where I supported substance misuse prevention initiatives across the city.
The Neighborhood Association for Inter-Cultural Affairs (NAICA) is a Bronx-based nonprofit providing housing, social services, and community programming. Through its new LGBTQ+ Coalition, NAICA is working to expand prevention resources and create healthier futures for BIPOC LGBTQ+ communities.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics Student
I am starting a new position as a Public Health Education Consultant at the Hospital for Special Surgery.
In this role, I will support health education initiatives at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. As a Public Health Education Consultant, I will contribute to programs that advance patient and community understanding of health, wellness, and preventive care.
The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) is a world-renowned academic medical center specializing in orthopedics, rheumatology, and related conditions. With a strong commitment to research, education, and patient-centered care, HSS consistently ranks as one of the nation’s leading hospitals and plays a key role in improving musculoskeletal health worldwide.
MS in Population Health Informatics, Class of 2023
I am the author of a new publication.
Designing and Evaluating a Prototype of a Trilingual Data Collection Tool for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region to Collect Data About Violence Against Sex Workers: Multiple Methods Approach in User-Centered Design
JMIR Formative Research, August 2025
This study applied human-centered design methods to adapt and evaluate a trilingual prototype of ReportVASW, a data collection tool for documenting violence against sex workers in the Middle East and North Africa. Usability testing and heuristic evaluation identified translation challenges—particularly in Arabic—but overall, participants rated the tool highly (System Usability Scale score of 91.4), underscoring its potential to strengthen reporting mechanisms and support sex workers’ safety and rights.
MPH in Health Policy and Management, Class of 2025
I was promoted to Assistant Director of Hospitals II at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst.
In my role within Executive Administration/Workforce Wellness, I support strategic initiatives that enhance hospital operations, staff engagement, and overall workplace well-being. I oversee projects aimed at fostering a healthier, more supportive environment for hospital employees—ensuring that workforce wellness remains a key priority in delivering high-quality patient care.
Previously, I served as Assistant Coordinating Manager at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, where I contributed to administrative operations, departmental coordination, and workforce development.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst is a major public hospital serving one of the most diverse communities in the nation. Known for its comprehensive services and commitment to equitable care, Elmhurst plays a vital role in advancing community health in New York City.
PhD in Epidemiology Candidate
I am the author of a new publication.
Association Between State LGBTQ+ Equality and Mpox Vaccination Rates During the 2022–2023 Epidemic in the United States
Annals of Epidemiology, September 2025
In 2022–2023, the United States experienced an mpox epidemic that primarily affected men who have sex with men. As part of the emergency response, the JYNNEOS vaccine was offered to those at increased risk, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. Despite the vaccine being free, many at-risk individuals remained unvaccinated.
This ecological study examined the relationship between state-level LGBTQ+ equality legislation and mpox vaccination rates. Findings showed that states with greater LGBTQ+ equality had higher vaccination rates, with the association being strongest earlier in the epidemic. The study emphasizes the need to learn from public health responses to past epidemics affecting marginalized groups and to strengthen uptake of preventive healthcare—such as vaccines—to protect both these communities and the broader population.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2025
I have been selected for the prestigious Dr. James A. Ferguson Emerging Infectious Diseases Research Initiatives for Student Enhancement (RISE) Fellowship and received the CUNY SPH Dean’s Award for Commitment.
Funded by the CDC and administered by the Kennedy Krieger Institute, the Ferguson RISE Fellowship supports students committed to addressing infectious diseases and health disparities through public health research and leadership. As a Ferguson Fellow, I will be placed with the Tennessee Department of Health, where I will contribute to initiatives focused on disease prevention and community health advancement.
I am honored to have received the Dean’s Award for Commitment from CUNY SPH and to maintain a 4.0 GPA.
PhD in Epidemiology Student
I am the author of a new publication.
Comparison of Analysis of Covariance and Analysis of Variance in Pharmacokinetic Similarity Studies
The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, May 2025
The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of demographic covariates on pharmacokinetic (PK) similarity assessment. A total of 30 PK similarity studies were analyzed to compare the use of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Trial simulations were conducted to further assess the two statistical approaches by varying sample size and covariates. Our findings showed that ANCOVA and ANOVA were generally comparable in establishing PK similarity between products, but ANCOVA produced narrower confidence intervals and demonstrated higher power—especially in smaller sample sizes.
MPH in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Class of 2025
I was named a recipient of the Edward A. Geltman Memorial Prize in Environmental Health Policy.
This award recognizes outstanding MPH students whose work exemplifies evidence-based advocacy, environmental justice, and systems-level thinking. It honors the legacy of Edward A. Geltman, JD, late husband of Associate Professor Elizabeth Glass Geltman, LLM, JD—a champion of environmental health, public policy, and interdisciplinary learning.
As an MPH alumna with a background in civil engineering, I currently work at the New York State Department of Transportation, where I contribute to projects at the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and public health. With broad experience spanning construction, engineering design, and environmental services in both the public and private sectors, I bring an interdisciplinary approach to addressing complex environmental and occupational health challenges—particularly those related to climate change and sustainability.
MPH in Community Health, Class of 2022
I was recently promoted to Director of Doula Programs at the Mama Glow Foundation.
As Director of Doula Programs at the Mama Glow Foundation, I lead the strategic vision and implementation of initiatives that strengthen the doula workforce and advance maternal health equity on the city, state, and national levels. In this role, I oversee program design, supervision, and evaluation, including the FEP Doula Program—a groundbreaking partnership with Elevance Health that provides accessible doula services across three states through insurance.
Previously, I managed the Citywide Doula Initiative in partnership with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, where I led recruitment, training, and supervision of over 60 doulas serving clients in low-resource communities. My work bridges public health, reproductive justice, and workforce development to ensure holistic, culturally responsive care for birthing people.
The Mama Glow Foundation is a New York-based nonprofit working to transform reproductive health by educating and empowering communities, training the next generation of birth workers, and advancing maternal health equity nationwide.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2025
I was named one of the inaugural recipients of the Edward A. Geltman Memorial Prize.
This recognition honors students who demonstrate a deep commitment to public health research and advocacy, particularly in the areas of data, environmental health, and community equity. I’m grateful to be selected as a recipient and to continue exploring these intersections through my work.
From 2024–2025, I served as a Community Planning Fellow with the Fund for the City of New York, where I supported initiatives that integrated public health principles into urban planning and community development.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2025
I presented my research poster at the 11th Annual New York City Epidemiology Forum (NYCEF), held at Hofstra University.
I had the opportunity to present my poster at NYCEF 2025, a forum that brings together epidemiologists, faculty, and students from across the tri-state area. Themed Epidemiology in the Age of Uncertainty: Navigating Complexity, Embracing Innovations, the conference included oral presentations, posters, and discussion sessions. It was an exciting chance to engage with fellow public health researchers, share my work, and gain feedback and inspiration from peers and professionals in the field.
MPH in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Class of 2018
I have been selected to present original work at the American Industrial Hygiene Association’s (AIHA) annual conference, AIHA Connect 2025, in Kansas City this May.
Hazard Control and Incident Classification in Healthcare and Biomedical Research
Implementing a Health and Safety Management System (HSMS) in complex settings—such as healthcare and biomedical research—requires customized approaches. My presentation introduces a practical framework for hazard control and incident investigation, including a task-based controls system and tailored incident classification categories. These tools are designed to support occupational and environmental health and safety (OEHS) professionals in developing accessible, data-driven safety programs that can be communicated effectively across all levels of an organization.
As Environmental Health & Safety Manager at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, I oversee programs that support safe research and clinical operations, with a focus on hazard assessment, regulatory compliance, and safety systems management.
MPH in Health Policy and Management, Class of 2024
I am the author of a new publication.
Lytiškumo ugdymo praktinis gidas (Sexuality Education Practical Guide)
Read the guide here.
I authored and published Lithuania’s first Sexuality Education Practical Guide under the Youth Affairs Agency. This evidence-based resource covers topics such as puberty, STIs, consent, communication, and sexual pleasure, and is designed to support youth workers and professionals. It’s currently used as training material in sexuality education workshops across Lithuania, helping to advance inclusive, science-based approaches to youth sexual health.
As Deputy Panel Manager for the NYC Health Panel at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, I support community engagement and public health initiatives that inform health policy and improve outcomes citywide.
PhD in Environmental and Planetary Health Sciences Student
I was selected to receive a student sponsorship from the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) to attend AIHA Connect 2025.
As part of this sponsorship, I will attend AIHA Connect 2025 in Kansas City from May 19–22, 2025. The award includes complimentary conference registration, roundtrip airfare, and hotel accommodations for three nights. This opportunity will allow me to engage with professionals in the field, expand my knowledge of industrial hygiene, and strengthen my contributions to workplace health and safety.
As a Senior Safety Advisor at Columbia University, I provide research safety guidance across multiple campuses and disciplines. I collaborate with faculty and research personnel to support safe, compliant practices, with a focus on building strong partnerships and delivering high-quality, client-centered safety services.
I was also selected to receive the Morton Lippmann Scholarship from the American Industrial Hygiene Foundation in the amount of $4,100.
MPH in Health Policy and Management, Class of 2016
I am the author of a new publication.
Communication and Connection Fostered Care Engagement During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study of People Living With HIV in New York City
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted health systems and delayed care, creating challenges for people living with HIV (PLWH). Through interviews with 40 PLWH in a New York City Medicaid managed-care plan, we explored how the pandemic affected care engagement. Themes included system delays, strained provider relationships, personal hardships, and the value of strong communication. Findings highlight strategies to support PLWH during future public health crises.
As a Senior Research Associate at the Brookdale Center for Healthy Aging at Hunter College, I lead qualitative research focused on aging, health equity, and HIV-related care. I’m a qualitative and quantitative researcher and writer with a broad editorial background, and I bring a deep interest in the economics of aging, long-term care policy, Medicare and Medicaid, family caregiving, and health care workforce issues.
In November 2024, I published “Perspectives on Weight Change and Antiretroviral Therapy from People Living with HIV in New York City: A Qualitative Study.” Read the publication here.
MPH in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Student
I was selected for the 2025 Summer Cancer Epidemiology Education in Special Populations (CEESP) Fellowship.
This summer, I will be conducting research in Taiwan through the CEESP Fellowship, examining trends in hematopoietic cancer incidence among Taiwanese farmers. My project will explore how environmental and occupational exposures—particularly in agricultural settings—may contribute to the development of blood and lymphatic cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. This opportunity will allow me to apply my training in environmental health to a global context and contribute to cancer prevention efforts in high-risk populations.
MPH in Community Health, Class of 2024
I am starting a new position as a Person-Centered Care Program Manager at NYC Health + Hospitals.
As a Person-Centered Care Program Manager at NYC Health + Hospitals, I will lead the implementation of Planetree, a program designed to improve health outcomes by incorporating patients, staff, families, and the local community into the care process. A key focus of my role will be developing a Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) and an employee feedback and incentive program to better understand community needs and gather staff input on enhancing patient care.
MPH in Community Health, Class of 2023
I started a new position as a Program Manager at Jacobi Medical Center in September 2023.
As a Program Manager at Jacobi Medical Center, I support the implementation and sustainability of programs that provide rapid linkage to HIV care and prevention services. I work closely with the Program Director and Assistant Program Director to connect patients in the Emergency Department and across New York City through the NYCHHC Virtual Express Care Telehealth platform. With a strong background in public health, community engagement, and direct patient support, I am committed to expanding access to care and addressing health disparities.
MPH in Health Policy and Management Student
I am starting a new position as an Intern with The Health Equity Consulting (HEC) Group.
As an Intern with The Health Equity Consulting (HEC) Group, I will support initiatives that advance health equity through policy, advocacy, and community-driven strategies. With extensive experience in social services, case management, and public health advocacy, I bring a strong background in client advocacy, crisis management, and healthcare navigation. This role allows me to apply my skills to meaningful projects that address disparities and improve health outcomes for diverse communities.
MPH in Community Health Student
I am starting a new position as an Equity Planning Manager at the NYC Mayor’s Office of Equity and Racial Justice.
As an Equity Planning Manager at the NYC Mayor’s Office of Equity and Racial Justice, I will work with city agencies to develop racial equity goals, as prescribed by the city charter. This role allows me to apply what I’ve learned at CUNY SPH to advance equity-driven initiatives that promote justice and inclusion across New York City.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2024
I’m starting a new position as a Research Programmer at the RAND Corporation, where I’ll be contributing to quantitative health care research. I’m also presenting my master’s essay at the Epidemiology and Biostatistics Forum at CUNY SPH.
As a Research Programmer at RAND in Santa Monica, CA, I will apply my skills in statistical programming, quantitative analytics, and data visualization to support health care research initiatives. This role aligns with my passion for social justice and health equity, allowing me to contribute to data-driven solutions that shape health policies and improve outcomes.
MPH in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Class of 2017
I am starting a new position as a Project Manager with the NYC Mayor’s Office of Environmental Coordination.
As a Project Manager with the NYC Mayor’s Office of Environmental Coordination (MOEC), I will assist City agencies and private applicants in navigating the environmental review process while supporting the implementation of the City’s green building laws. This role allows me to contribute to MOEC’s mission of advancing sustainability, fostering environmental leadership, and ensuring state-of-the-art green building practices across New York City.
MPH in Health Policy and Management, Class of 2021
I recently received a promotion to Revenue Cycle Supervisor, Accounting Operations at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the Physician Billing division.
At Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, I previously held roles as a Training and Development Lead and Senior Patient Access Coordinator. These positions allowed me to build expertise in patient services, team training, and operational efficiency, preparing me for this new leadership opportunity.
As a Revenue Cycle Supervisor, I oversee accounting operations in the Physician Billing division. I’m passionate about ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and excellence in operations that support the critical work of patient care.
PhD in Epidemiology Student
On December 5th, 2024, I presented at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during CDC Translation Day.
I shared my work as a field employee with the Perinatal and Infant Health team, focusing on the role of perinatal quality collaboratives in improving health outcomes using the Knowledge 2 Action translation science framework. Our presentation, titled “Perinatal Quality Collaboratives: Improving Maternal and Infant Outcomes Using Translation Science,” highlighted the application of implementation science frameworks to improve care and reduce maternal and infant mortality and morbidity.
As a full-time SUD Health Scientist with the CDC Foundation, I am passionate about advancing public health initiatives that improve the health of mothers and infants during the perinatal period.
MPH in Health Policy and Management, Class of 2022
I am starting a new position as a Program Analyst with the HUD Office of Recapitalization.
As a Program Analyst, I will be supporting initiatives within the HUD Office of Recapitalization, including efforts to improve housing sustainability and resilience through innovative programs. This role allows me to contribute to housing improvements that enhance quality of life and promote equitable access to safe, energy-efficient housing.
Before this role, I served as an Information Management Analyst at the DHHS ASPR Center for Preparedness, where I focused on strengthening emergency preparedness and response capabilities.
MPH in Community Health, Class of 2023
I am an author of a new publication.
Vaccine Literacy in Handbook of Concepts in Health, Health Behavior and Environmental Health
The chapter focuses on challenges in vaccine communication, communication strategies that promote vaccine literacy, reasons to invest in vaccine literacy and effective vaccine communication. It also discusses creative recommendations to achieve improved vaccine literacy aside from effective communication strategies.
MPH in Health Policy and Management Student
I am starting a new position as a John D. Solomon Fellow at NYC Emergency Management and the NYPD.
The John D. Solomon Fellowship for Public Service is the first student fellowship in New York City devoted specifically to emergency management. Fellows work with city agencies to support and enhance emergency preparedness, response, and recovery.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2020
I am entering my third year of the PhD program in Epidemiology at Columbia Mailman School of Public Health. I am also an author of a new publication.
Designing and Implementing the IDEAL Study: A Randomized Clinical Trial of APOE Genotype Disclosure for Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease in an Urban Latino Population
Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions (TRCI), December 2024
The IDEAL study examines the impact of APOE genotype disclosure on Alzheimer’s risk in urban Latino populations. Participants received risk estimates with or without genetic information, and their psychosocial, behavioral, and cognitive outcomes were tracked for 15 months. Findings aim to improve education and counseling in diverse communities.