On May 6, the department hosted its annual Graduation Reception at SALT Waterfront Restaurant, recognizing Fall 2024, Spring 2025, and Summer 2025 graduates. With views of the Key Biscayne waterfront and a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and connection, the event celebrated academic achievement and dedication to public health.
During the program, Viviana Horigian, M.D., M.H.A., professor and director of Public Health Education, delivered remarks to the graduating class. “You’ve chosen public health during one of the most critical times in our global history,” she said. “Your commitment, your passion, and your dedication are what the world needs now more than ever.”
She also highlighted key student milestones, including national fellowships, peer-reviewed publications, and competitive placements. “These are not just individual successes—they reflect the strength of our academic environment and the dedication of our faculty, staff, and advisors.”
The reception also featured formal recognition of individuals whose mentorship, teaching, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact:
Delta Omega 2025 Awards
- Distinguished Mentorship Award – Dr. Tulay Koru-Sengul
- Excellence in Teaching Award – Dr. Farren Briggs
- Outstanding Dedication – Heather Rose
PHSA 2025 Awards
- DPHS Faculty of the Year – Dr. Sara St. George
- Teaching Assistant of the Year – Sarah Schuyler
- Graduate Student of the Year – Claudia Bonilla
- PHSA Officer of the Year – Alexandria Scarlett
- DPHS Staff Service Award – Ashley Gonzalez
Delta Omega 2025–2026 Executive Board
- Bria-Necole Diggs
- Connor McCarley
- Angie Gaitan
PHSA 2025–2026 Executive Board
- Shannon Coffey, Co-President
- Sophia Poslock, Co-President
- Minnu Vaddeman, VP of Outreach and Community Service
- Tanusri Bandaru, VP of Social Media
As the sun set over the water, students and faculty shared a moment of pride and reflection. In post-event reflections, faculty expressed what the evening meant to them and why moments like this matter.
“The moment I arrived, there was so much enthusiasm and a great energy overall,” said Dr. Kathryn McCollister, Ph.D., professor and director of the Division of Health Services Research and Policy. “I loved looking out to the patio and seeing the students taking pictures with Sebastian.”
Dr. McCollister also shared that she is proud to be part of the department’s teaching faculty and to support students throughout their M.P.H. journey. “We are with you, our students, to share in your challenges and to celebrate your victories throughout your graduate education journey in the department.”
“A highlight was seeing the many smiling faces of relief, joy, of being in the moment with their friends,” said Farren Briggs, Ph.D., M.Sc., associate professor. “With different divisions, we sometimes risk becoming siloed. Events like this help foster our bonds as a department, sharing and celebrating the successes of faculty, staff, and especially our talented students.”
Sara St. George, Ph.D., M.A., associate professor and director of the Master of Science in Prevention Science and Community Health, reflected on the event as a meaningful tradition.
“The annual graduate reception is my favorite departmental event of the year,” she said. “I love having the opportunity to connect with students in such a beautiful setting and celebrate all they have achieved. Bonus: I get a new photo with Sebastian every year! If you are a future graduate, make the time to attend. Celebrating this milestone honors the hard work and community that made it possible.”
As graduates prepare to take the next step, whether in research, clinical care, community health, or policy, the department stands behind them, proud of their accomplishments and excited for what lies ahead.
Written by Deycha Torres Hernández, published on May 22, 2025.
