Diggs, a 2021 graduate of the School of Nursing and Health Studies (SONHS) with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health, later earned her Master of Science in Public Health from the Miller School and is now pursuing her Ph.D. in Epidemiology. She was tapped into Iron Arrow in Spring 2025 in front of the M. Christine Schwartz Center for Nursing and Health Studies.

Founded in 1926, Iron Arrow recognizes individuals who demonstrate scholarship, leadership, character, humility and a deep commitment to the University of Miami community.

A Commitment to Service and Leadership

Diggs described the recognition as both an honor and a responsibility shaped by years of service and engagement within the University.

“Being tapped into Iron Arrow is a profound honor and a responsibility that I do not take lightly,” she said. “It reflects years of passionate service, integrity and commitment to the University of Miami community.”

She added that the recognition reinforces her commitment to leading with purpose and contributing to work that supports others through research, mentorship and community engagement.

Mentorship and Research Training

Diggs has worked for more than five years in the Global Cannabis and Psychedelics Research Collaboratory, led by Denise C. Vidot, Ph.D., a graduate of the University of Miami Ph.D. in Epidemiology program and associate professor at the School of Nursing and Health Studies, who was present at her tapping and serves as her mentor.

She described the experience as central to her academic and professional development.

“The lab has provided an environment that values rigor, collaboration and critical thinking, while also encouraging growth and independence,” Diggs said. “The mentorship and support have shaped how I think about leadership, teamwork and the responsibility researchers have to the communities they serve.”

Through her work, Diggs has contributed to research while strengthening her analytical, writing and scientific skills.

Advancing Research with Global Impact

Diggs’ current research focuses on the impact of plant-based therapies, including cannabis and psychedelics, among individuals living with chronic health conditions.

She is particularly focused on sickle cell disease and its impact on African and diasporic communities, with an interest in expanding research efforts beyond the United States.

“As a Liberian, I am deeply interested in pursuing research that contributes to improving health outcomes in Liberia and similar settings,” she said.

Her work reflects a broader goal of conducting research that is both methodologically rigorous and responsive to the needs of the communities it aims to serve.

Written by Deycha Torres Hernández, published March 10, 2026.