David J. Lee, Ph.D., professor in the Division of Epidemiology and Population Health Sciences, was recognized for 35 years of service at the University of Miami, while Yanira Blanco Oliveras, director of research support, was honored for 30 years of service.

The annual Faculty and Staff Long Service Awards Ceremony recognizes employees who have reached milestone years of service between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026, celebrating individuals whose work has contributed to the University’s academic, research and operational mission over multiple decades.

Kathryn McCollister, Ph.D., professor and interim chair of the department, reflected on the significance of their contributions to the department’s continued growth and success.

“Longstanding faculty and staff members carry with them the history, relationships and institutional knowledge that help strengthen a department over time,” Dr. McCollister said. “David’s leadership as a former chair helped shape the growth and direction of the department for many years, while Yanira’s dedication and support behind the scenes have contributed tremendously to our research mission and daily operations. Their impact on the department has been lasting and far-reaching.”

“David and Yanira represent the heart of what makes our department so special,” said Margie Jimenez, M.A., CRA, assistant chair. “Their commitment, professionalism and willingness to support others have had a lasting impact on our faculty, students and staff. We are incredibly fortunate to celebrate these milestones with them.”

Since joining the Department of Public Health Sciences faculty in 1990, Dr. Lee has built an extensive research portfolio focused on chronic disease epidemiology, occupational health, cancer surveillance and health disparities. He has served as principal investigator or co-principal investigator on continuously funded NIH and CDC grants since 1993 and currently serves as principal investigator of the Florida Cancer Data System, one of the largest statewide cancer registries in the United States.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Lee has authored or co-authored more than 300 peer-reviewed publications and has mentored doctoral students, fellows and junior faculty across the University. His work has also contributed to large-scale national research initiatives, including the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos and related ancillary studies focused on eye health and chronic disease outcomes.

“Where did the time go?” Dr. Lee said. “I am honored to be given the opportunity to spend my entire career at the Miller School, joining the faculty shortly after completing my Ph.D. It has been a privilege to watch the school expand in reach and impact over these years.”

Rather than pointing to a single accomplishment, Dr. Lee said he is most proud of the steady accumulation of scientific discovery throughout his career, as well as contributing to the development of the department’s graduate training programs.

Dr. Lee said mentoring the next generation of scientists and public health practitioners has been the most rewarding aspect of his career.

“I take great pride and joy watching trainees advance in their respective fields of study far beyond anything that I have done in my own career,” he said.

He added that the freedom to pursue scientific questions that interested him has remained a strong source of motivation throughout his time at the University. “Keeping up with the growth and accomplishments of mentees is also rejuvenating,” he said.

Reflecting on the field, Dr. Lee also emphasized the importance of perseverance and innovation for future researchers entering a rapidly changing environment.

“The current environment into which aspiring public health researchers are launching their careers is quite challenging,” Dr. Lee said. “The advent of artificial intelligence brings tremendous opportunities for new researchers to effectively tackle the big public health challenges of our time.”

Blanco Oliveras currently oversees regulatory compliance, reporting, financial monitoring and sponsored project closeout activities within the department as director of research support. Prior to joining the department in 2021, she worked for 10 years in the Department of Psychiatry and spent 15 years at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science in the Office of Research Administration, supporting pre- and post-award operations.

“Reaching 30 years at the University is a very meaningful milestone for me,” Blanco Oliveras said. “It represents years of growth, learning, dedication and the opportunity to work with many wonderful colleagues and faculty members.”

Throughout her career at the University, Blanco Oliveras has supported faculty research operations and sponsored project administration across multiple areas of the institution. She noted that working across different departments helped shape her into a more knowledgeable, flexible and compassionate professional.

Blanco Oliveras expressed that one of the things she values most about working in the department is the strong sense of teamwork and support among faculty and staff.

“It is a group of dedicated people who genuinely care about the work they do and about one another,” she said. “That positive environment makes a big difference.”

She added that the most rewarding part of her career has been the relationships she has built throughout the years. “I truly enjoy helping others, solving problems and being someone people can rely on.”

Reflecting on changes in research administration over the years, Blanco Oliveras noted the increasing complexity of systems, regulations and compliance requirements, while emphasizing that supporting faculty remains the most meaningful part of her work.

“I enjoy supporting faculty and helping them navigate the administrative side of research so they can focus on the important work they are passionate about,” she said. “It is rewarding to know that behind every project or grant, there is a team working together to make it successful.”

She also emphasized that the people and sense of community at the University have remained a constant source of motivation throughout her career. “Being able to contribute, grow and feel part of a community has made my career very meaningful,” Blanco Oliveras said.

Written by Deycha Torres Hernández, published May 22, 2026.