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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 Health Policy and Management, Class of 2021
I passed my Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and am now pursuing my Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB).
As Diabetes Program Manager at The Institute for Family Health, I lead initiatives that support diabetes prevention and management across clinical settings in New York.
The Institute for Family Health is a federally qualified health center network providing comprehensive primary care, behavioral health, and preventive services to underserved communities across New York.
MPH in Community Health, Class of 2017
I was promoted to National Director of Clinical Quality and Strategy for Member Experience at Optum Health.
As National Director of Clinical Quality and Strategy for Member Experience, I lead initiatives that enhance clinical quality and improve the overall experience of members, supporting national efforts to strengthen patient-centered care and outcomes.
Previously, I served as CAHPS/HOS Program Manager within the Customer Experience team, where I supported quality measurement and performance improvement initiatives.
I recently recertified as a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) and as a Certified Patient Experience Professional (CPXP). I also began serving as Professional Development Chair on the Board of the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives (NALHE).
Optum Health is a leading healthcare organization focused on delivering integrated, patient-centered care through data-driven insights, clinical expertise, and innovative solutions to improve health outcomes nationwide.
MS in Global and Migrant Health Policy, Class of 2021
I am starting a new position as Assistant Director of Awards Programs at the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation.
As Assistant Director of Awards Programs, I support the administration and advancement of programs that invest in innovative cancer research and help strengthen the pipeline of emerging scientific leaders.
Previously, I served as Research Education Coordinator and Program Manager at Hunter College/RF CUNY.
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation supports exceptional early-career scientists pursuing innovative cancer research, helping accelerate discoveries that improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
PhD in Community Health and Health Policy, Class of 2020
I am starting a new role as a CUNY SPH Foundation Board Member.
As a Foundation Board Member, I support the CUNY SPH community through volunteer leadership and strategic engagement that advances the School’s mission and future growth.
I am Associate Director, Development Innovation & Operations at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, where I lead innovation opportunities in clinical development and operations to improve speed, efficiency, quality, and cost.
The Foundation Board supports CUNY SPH’s long-term growth by strengthening philanthropy, advancing strategic priorities, and fostering partnerships that enhance public health education, research, and student success.
PhD in Community Health and Health Policy Candidate
I received the Dean’s Dissertation Award.
Each year, the Dean of CUNY SPH makes funding available to support dissertation research by doctoral students who are actively enrolled and in good academic standing. This award will support my research on understudied dimensions of drug use among young adults ages 18–29, with a focus on the role of parents in shaping drug use and treatment trajectories over the course of young adulthood.
I currently serve as an Adjunct Lecturer and Teaching Assistant at CUNY SPH and hold a Predoctoral Fellowship at NYU College of Nursing.
I was also the first author on a poster presentation at the Rx and Illicit Drug Summit in Nashville, Tennessee, resulting from a research partnership between CUNY SPH and the NYC Office of Chief Medical Examiner led by Dr. Diana Romero.
MPH in Health Policy and Management Student
I received the CUNY Women’s Student Leadership Award.
The CUNY Women’s Student Leadership Award recognizes students who demonstrate strong leadership potential and a commitment to creating meaningful impact. The award reflects CUNY’s commitment to supporting students in their academic and professional journeys and empowering the next generation of changemakers.
I currently serve as President of the Graduate Student Government Association (GSGA) at CUNY SPH, where I support student leadership, engagement, and advocacy.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2020
I am starting a new position as Research Scientist II at the New York State Department of Health.
As Research Scientist II, I support the Statewide Maternal Health Innovation Initiative data team within the Division of Family Health, contributing to statewide efforts to improve maternal health outcomes.
Previously, I served as an Epidemiologist at Clarivate in Philadelphia, PA.
The New York State Department of Health works to protect and promote the health of New Yorkers through public health programs, research, and policy initiatives across the state.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics Student
I was promoted to Research Associate at Northwell Health’s Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research.
As a Research Associate in the Lab for Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Research at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, I support full-time research initiatives focused on advancing scientific understanding and treatment of spinal cord injuries.
Previously, I served as a Research Assistant in the Lab for Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Research at Northwell Health, contributing to laboratory operations and research projects within the same program.
The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health is a leading biomedical research center dedicated to advancing innovative treatments and improving patient care through scientific discovery.
PhD in Community Health and Health Policy, Class of 2023
I received the Cardiovascular Summer Institute Program Fellowship.
The Cardiovascular Summer Institute is a mentored research career advancement program at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The program supports junior investigators in developing research priorities, strengthening their capacity to address cardiovascular health outcomes, and building the skills and professional networks necessary to establish independent research careers in heart, lung, and blood conditions.
As an Assistant Professor of Public Health at Lehman College’s Institute for Health Equity, Administration, and Technology (HEAT), my research examines social, behavioral, and environmental factors shaping cardiovascular health outcomes among Black, Asian, and Latino communities, including immigrants, as well as U.S. women and workers. I also serve as Coordinator of the Public Health program, advancing educational initiatives that address health disparities and healthcare leadership gaps in the Bronx.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2020
I started a new position in 2024 as Senior Manager of Clinical Research and Compliance at Burke Rehabilitation.
As Senior Manager of Clinical Research and Compliance, I established the infrastructure necessary to launch clinical trials at Burke Rehabilitation. The program now has multiple trials open to enrollment and many investigator-initiated clinical research studies underway. One trial is funded by the NIH, a second NIH application has been submitted, and we are awaiting a PCORI funding decision. If positive results emerge from the ongoing multi-site trial, CMS may expand coverage of cardiac rehabilitation for stroke survivors.
Burke Rehabilitation is a nationally recognized rehabilitation hospital in White Plains, NY, dedicated to advancing patient-centered care, clinical research, and innovative therapies to improve recovery and long-term health outcomes.
MPH in Health Policy and Management, Class of 2017
I am the author of a new publication.
Contending with Home Care Needs After a Work Disability
Generations Journal, October 2025
This article examines the home care needs of older workers experiencing work-limiting disability, including support with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and cooking. It highlights the reliance on family caregiving, the financial strain on households, and the prevalence of unmet and fluctuating care needs. The findings point to opportunities for federal benefit and healthcare systems to better support individuals navigating changing care circumstances.
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 March 2025, I published “Communication and Connection Fostered Care Engagement During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study of People Living With HIV in New York City.” Read the publication here.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2025
My public health research was featured as part of a curated public health art exhibit at the American Red Cross Headquarters in New York City (February 19–23, 2026).
This work translates senior care coordination research into a visual narrative highlighting the healthcare access challenges faced by older adults during public health emergencies.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Class of 2017
I am the author of a new publication.
PrEP Prescription Lengths: Associations with Patient Retention, On-Time Renewal and Demographics
AIDS and Behavior, October 2025
As a Data Analyst with the Hunter Alliance for Research and Translation (HART) at RFCUNY, I support full-time research initiatives focused on advancing public health outcomes through data analysis and translation.
MPH in Community Health, Class of 2025
I am the author of a new publication.
Analytic Methods to Investigate HIV-Related Digital Communication: A Scoping Review
Current HIV/AIDS Reports, November 2025
This scoping review examines how researchers study HIV-related digital communication, mapping the analytic methods used across the field. The review highlights a wide range of approaches—from qualitative thematic analysis to machine learning and sentiment classification—while identifying gaps where methodological innovation and stronger ethical clarity are needed. By charting current practices, the study helps inform future research at the intersection of HIV, digital communication, and public health.
MPH in Community Health Student
I received an H-E-B grant to support women’s health through the Ascension Seton Foundation.
H-E-B awarded the Ascension Seton Foundation $1 million to support two critical priorities for women and families across Central Texas: expanding access to life-saving prenatal and postnatal care at the new Ascension Seton Women’s Hospital, and accelerating the Food is the Best Medicine program, which addresses postpartum food insecurity and improves maternal health outcomes.
I co-developed the Food is the Best Medicine program, which is fully philanthropically funded. I manage the program and oversee all restricted funds supporting its implementation and growth.
As Senior Director of Grants and Development at the Ascension Seton Foundation in Austin, Texas, I lead philanthropic strategy and manage grant-funded initiatives that advance health equity and community-driven care.
I presented at a recent national conference on living kidney donation, supported by a CUNY SPH Graduate Student Government Association (GSGA) Student Success Award for professional development. My oral presentation, “Engage Series Case Study: A Series of Free, Virtual, Educational and Interactive Events for the Living Donor and Kidney Transplant Community,” and poster, “Understanding and Improving the Living Kidney Donor Experience,” highlight efforts to expand education, engagement, and support for donor communities.
MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics Student
I presented my research poster at the 2025 American Epilepsy Society (AES) Annual Meeting on December 7, 2025.
Etiology of Active Epilepsy in Latin American Countries: A Large Cross-Sectional Hospital-Based Study — An Initial Approach
This study describes the etiology of active epilepsy across multiple Latin American countries using data from a large, hospital-based cross-sectional study. By examining etiologic classifications by country, the research highlights regional patterns in the causes of active epilepsy and underscores the importance of context-specific data to inform future research, prevention strategies, and health system planning in Latin America.
MPH in Community Health Student
I am starting a new position as a Health Care Access Specialist Intern at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
As a Health Care Access Specialist Intern, I support initiatives that improve access to health services for New Yorkers, contributing to program operations and community-facing work that advances health equity.
The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) is one of the largest public health agencies in the world, dedicated to protecting and promoting the health of all New Yorkers through prevention, research, policy, and community-based programs.
MPH in Community Health Student
I am starting a new position as a Project Coordinator at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
As a Project Coordinator, I support national public health initiatives focused on mental health, substance use, harm reduction, and suicide prevention. My work spans projects funded by federal agencies and private foundations, contributing to program coordination, implementation, and impact.
I first connected with the National Council for Mental Wellbeing through an 8-week internship I found on Handshake. After completing two consecutive internships, I was invited to apply for a full-time role, leading to my current position.
The National Council for Mental Wellbeing is a Washington, DC–based nonprofit dedicated to advancing mental health and substance use care nationwide through policy advocacy, capacity building, and program development.
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 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 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.
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 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 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 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 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.