The graduating class represented a diverse array of degrees, including M.P.H., M.S.P.H., M.S. in Biostatistics, M.S. in Prevention Science, and three distinct Ph.D. programs. David J. Lee, Ph.D., professor and chair of the department, praised their resilience amid public health challenges and expressed confidence in their ability to effect positive changes.
"Despite the enormous public health challenges we face, we are proud of this resilient cohort of students. They are equipped to bring about meaningful and positive changes in the future, impacting public health locally and globally," Dr. Lee said.
Viviana E. Horigian, Ph.D., professor and director of Public Health Education, lauded the students' notable accomplishments throughout the year, including participation in the Eastern Atlantic Student Research Forum and presentations at the American Public Health Association Annual Meeting & Expo. Many students received conference travel grants and earned prestigious accolades for their presentations.
Throughout the evening, faculty and staff shared their heartfelt sentiments with the graduates they nurtured throughout their academic journey. “The graduation reception is one of my favorite events of the year; we honor the achievements of our graduates and send them forth as agents of change in public health,” said Begoña Rovira, M.B.A., M.A., executive director of the Master’s Programs in Public Health.
“They will navigate complex public health challenges charged with empathy, evidence, and a commitment to equity. I wish them well in their mission to enhance the well-being of communities worldwide,” she added.
Tyler Bartholomew, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Division of Health Services Research and Policy, exemplifies the profound impact and success graduates can achieve. "As an alum, the Department of Public Health Sciences laid the foundation for my career, equipping me with the knowledge and skills needed to drive advances in research, education, and policy in public health. Now, as a faculty member, I have the honor of inspiring and mentoring the next generation of public health professionals," he said.
“I am thrilled to witness the next generation of public health graduates step into the world, eager to make meaningful and lasting change for our communities,” Dr. Bartholomew added.
“I truly look forward to attending the department’s graduation reception each year. I love reconnecting with students and celebrating their accomplishments in a beautiful venue with a delicious meal and lively music/dancing at the end,” shared Sara M. St. George, Ph.D., assistant professor and Director of M.S. Program in Prevention Science & Community Health.
Recognizing Excellence
The event featured the announcement of various awards, celebrating exceptional contributions from faculty, staff, and students. Awards ranged from recognizing outstanding guidance and support, exemplified by Dr. WayWay Hlaing's Distinguished Mentorship Award, to celebrating significant impacts on students' academic and professional development, as seen in Dr. Alberto Caban-Martinez's Faculty of the Year Award.
Katelyn McGuigan was honored with the Staff Service Award for her exceptional dedication and support to the department, ensuring its smooth and effective operation. Rachel Kimble received the Public Health Student Association Officer of the Year Award, for her strong commitment to student engagement and community service.
2024 Award Recipients
Delta Omega Awards:
Distinguished Mentorship Award: Dr. WayWay Hlaing
Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Raymond Balise
Outstanding Dedication: Carlen Duncombe
Public Health Student Association (PHSA) 2024 Awards:
Department of Public Health Sciences Faculty of the Year: Dr. Alberto Caban-Martinez
Teaching Assistant of the Year: Mackenzie Goodman
Graduate Student of the Year: Anuradha Ramdas
PHSA Officer of the Year: Rachel Kimble
Department of Public Health Sciences Staff Service Award: Katelyn McGuigan
Introducing New Leaders
The celebration also introduced the new executive boards for the Delta Omega Honorary Society and PHSA for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Delta Omega 2024-2025 Executive Board:
Bria-Necole Diggs
Connor McCarley
PHSA 2024-2025 Executive Board:
Co-President - Claudia Bonilla
Co-President - Alexandria Scarlett
Treasurer & Secretary - Harshitha Kakani
VP of Community Service - Angie Gaitan
VP of Major Events - Tyler Crew
Looking Ahead
The achievements of the graduates and the dedication of faculty and staff set a high standard for future students. Graduates expressed gratitude and shared how the department's support shaped their careers.
Emilie Brown:
“As I reflect on my path, I am reminded of the opportunities provided by the department, facilitated by the mentors who have supported me along the way. Becoming the 2023 MISH Kuvin Fellow in my first year and studying in Israel was an unforgettable experience. Being tapped into Iron Arrow during my second year marked a significant milestone in my journey. These achievements have been fueled by my profound connection to the university’s community, which continues to celebrate diversity and nurture student growth. The support and opportunities I have received at the Department of Public Health Sciences are unparalleled, and for that, I will always be grateful.”
Venkata Madhavi:
“As a clinician transitioning into public health, my journey as an M.P.H. student at the department has been deeply enriching. Reflecting on my time here, I am immensely grateful for the experiences and learning opportunities that have shaped my career. One of the most impactful aspects of my journey has been the mentorship I received. My mentors were not just academic guides but also role models embodying compassion, dedication, and innovation. Their support has been instrumental in my development. Working with Dr. Naresh Kumar on a novel research project was a highlight of my time here. Despite having no prior experience, I learned essential research skills, and our work on the impact of heat stress on IVF outcomes won first prize at the ESRF 2024 conference.”
The Department of Public Health Sciences looks forward to supporting the ongoing success of its graduates and advancing public health initiatives locally and globally.
“Everywhere you go, remember to leave your mark. Think of stumbling blocks as stepping stones and never stop,” said Dr. Lee. “The research you have conducted will significantly improve the quality of life for many and help prevent disease."
Written by Deycha Torres Hernández, published on May 21, 2024.
