SPH hosted a series of events during National Public Health Week.
Reflections of
DEAN’S MESSAGE
As I complete my three years as Dean of the School of Public Health, I want to take this moment to thank all the faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners for their support toward the vision of making the University of Memphis School of Public Health one of the most impactful schools of public health in the nation. Prior to my arrival, I laid out an aspirational plan of making SPH a glocal (local and global) model that would be an engine of social, economic and health impact here in the city of Memphis, the state of Tennessee, and beyond.
The commitment is toward building an impactful School of Public Health that is Community- engaged, Anchor Institute, offering Research-based solutions, supporting Entrepreneurship and innovation while remaining Student-centric (CARES).
This past year has continued to be a period of unwavering commitment toward community engaged scholarship and impact, cross-institutional and crosssector collaborations and partnerships. There has been the continued creation of shared vision and goals and coordination among various stakeholders and ongoing robust communication. As an ASPPH 2024 Harrison C. Spencer Award recipient, SPH can highlight the initiatives for high school students and beyond.
SPH implemented the nation’s first Public Health Education Model in High Schools. Built on the 4 Pillars of (CARE), Coping, Adaptability, Resilience, and Empathy, the Public Health Clubs are facilitated by experts in the field . The Clubs offer high school students the opportunity to come up with out-of-the-box solutions to address common public health challenges in local and global settings. The PH Clubs have been created locally and internationally with continued growth of school participation.
The UofM School of Public Health was the first in the country to offer a dual enrollment program that provides the opportunity for students to jumpstart their bachelor’s degree in public health (BSPH) by taking college courses during the 11th and 12th grades. Dual-enrollment students develop skills in oral speaking, data presentation, community partnerships and leadership through didactic coursework, group activities, and an experiential learning project. Students that commit to all five courses are eligible to sit for the Disease Intervention Certification exam and obtain an undergraduate certificate in Public Health.
The Hackathon provides an opportunity for participants to harness their creativity and technological skills to address pressing health issues affecting today’s youth. This hackathon is not just about finding solutions - it’s about empowering the next generation to become
innovators in the digital health space. SPH invites multisector, multi-institutional, cross-country participation in this innovative initiative to sensitize youth about the importance of public health and create a community of learners and leaders in public health.
In collaboration with iEARN - an International Education and Resource Network, the UofM SPH recently launched its Public Health in Action curriculum, a public health dual enrollment and an undergraduate experiential learning program. The course is an opportunity for high school students from across the globe to explore the field of public health, gaining insights into its challenges and developing skills and knowledge needed to create and implement innovative, human-centered solutions.
The School of Public Health launched the nation’s first public health diplomacy lab, and an inaugural Public Health Diplomacy Summit took place in September 2024 in collaboration with ASPPH and Global Network of Academic Public Health (GNAPH). Public health experts from more than a dozen countries participated at the University of Memphis School of Public Health. They discussed key public health diplomacy curriculum competencies and resources to advance this field.
Over the last three years, SPH has shown nearly 36% increase in enrollment resulting in over 300 students in SPH and has significantly expanded its research awards from $2 million to about $27 million. All SPH programs are STEM Designated. There is a continual growth of faculty pool, over thirty members, whose expertise is shared with students. SPH has established a robust SPH Alumni network of over 800 alumni. Over half a million dollars is offered in student scholarships annually.
Partnerships are key to the University of Memphis School of Public Health. Our current initiatives have partnerships with Shelby County Health Department, Tennessee Department of Health, Memphis Shelby County Schools and Juvenile Court. We also have established significant meaningful collaborations across ten countries as well as over 200 community organizations collaborations throughout Shelby County and the State of Tennessee and beyond.
I keenly look forward to another productive year of academic excellence, innovation, sustained growth, opportunity and success. I welcome innovative ideas and community partnerships that can help advance the School of Public Health toward becoming an engine of social, economic growth with a significant health and well-being impact on individuals, their families and the communities not only in Memphis but beyond.
Ashish Joshi, PhD, MBBS, MPH Dean & Distinguished University Professor
SPH STRATEGIC PLAN
IN PROGRESS
At the University of Memphis School of Public Health our mission extends beyond the classroom, to meet the needs of the constantly evolving world of public health. Taking this into consideration, we’ve defined seven strategic goals that guide our efforts to advance public health, promote innovation and make a measurable impact locally and globally.
These goals serve as a roadmap — shaping how we educate, engage with communities, conduct research and lead in the field of public health.
Increase awareness of the SPH’s unique value to help grow enrollment and increase access.
Encourage students to persevere and thrive in their educational experience and careers while creating a meaningful connection with the school.
Focus on student success and prepare students for the workforce through an innovative yet
Support impactful, interdisciplinary scholarship and research with world class infrastructure and researchers motivated to address local and global challenges.
2023—28
LIFE AT SPH
Over the past year, the School of Public Health has continued to advance its mission of fostering a “glocal” (local + global) approach to public health right here in the City of Memphis.
In 2024–25, the School established partnerships with over 200 community organizations - collaborations that are vital to developing and delivering a wide range of innovative programs and events for our students, the Memphis community as well as national and international stakeholders.
This year, SPH welcomed government officials as guest speakers, launched new public health clubs across the country and hosted the inaugural Public Health Diplomacy Summit at the University of Memphis.
The SPH-CARES model continues to define who we are: an engaged and dedicated School of Public Health committed to making a measurable impact in public health both locally and globally.
Outcomes from this landmark event were published in Frontiers, reflecting our leadership in shaping the future of public health.
As we conclude another successful academic year, our commitment to a student-centered approach remains unwavering. The SPH-CARES model continues to define who we are, an engaged and dedicated SPH committed to making a measurable impact in public health both locally and globally.
Richardson | Coordinator Experiential Learning and Career Readiness
Since its launch in January 2024, the Office of Experiential Learning and Career Readiness (OELCR) at the University of Memphis School of Public Health has made significant strides in supporting students’ professional journeys.
Through a robust lineup of workshops, one-on-one coaching, and strategically curated events, like the SPH fall and spring career fairs, the OELCR continues to connect students with transformative opportunities in public health.
Since Fall of 2024:
430+
TOTAL STUDENT MEETINGS HOSTED
182 TOTAL STUDENTS SUPPORTED TOTAL PRACTICUM PLACEMENTS: Fall 2024 through Summer 2025
97
Jamecia
SPH Career Fairs | 2025
Employer participation: 13 in SPRING 2024 29 in SPRING 2025
Student career fair attendance increased from 50 to 75.
Day 1 | Bridge Walk
Your Health is Our Mission
Day 2 | PHSA Guest Speaker
Amplifying Voices for Public Health
Day 3 | Yoga on the Lawn
Optimizing Health For All
Day 4 | Plant and Picnic
Championing Resilience for Health
Day 5 | Student Health Gallery
Strengthening the Public Health Workforce
NATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH WEEK 2025
School of Public Health
National Public Health Week
This year’s NPHW theme, “It Starts Here,” encourages institutions and individuals to take meaningful steps toward improving health for all.
Investing in Youth: Public Health IDEAS Clubs Expand Across the Globe through a CARES Framework Model for Public Health Education
In 2022, the University of Memphis School of Public Health (UofM SPH) launched the RE-AIM Public Health IDEAS Clubs, a bold initiative to reimagine public health education – starting with high school students through connections built from outreach locally and globally.
Two years later, the Clubs have evolved into a “glocally” connected program empowering students and community members to shape public health’s future.
A TRANSFORMATIVE MODEL OF YOUTH ENGAGEMENT
IDEAS Clubs are school-based programs held biweekly at participating high schools. Students work on hands-on projects addressing public health issues through campaigns and prototypes focused on prevention and community public health.
Clubs provide interactive learning on public health topics and are supported by SPH staff or faculty and a designated school instructor (High School Point Person).
Core Curriculum Features: Systems Thinking & Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), Data Storytelling & Innovation, Human-Centered Design & Public Health Project Management, and Career Pathway Exploration.
Learning is structured to promote student ownership, flexible teamwork and hands-on activities that guide students from topics to problem-solving and project design.
2024—25 GROWTH AND REACH
Over the past year, the Public Health IDEAS Clubs expanded significantly, and plans are underway to scale to more schools and community organizations starting fall 2025.
6 HIGH SCHOOLS WITH 7 ACTIVE CLUBS 70+ CLUB VISITS AT 6 LOCATIONS 116 STUDENTS IN CLUBS 11 INTERNATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL CLUBS 72 STUDENTS IN DUAL ENROLLMENT
66 HACKATHON STUDENTS ACROSS 11 TEAMS FROM 4 SCHOOLS IN MEMPHIS
80+ PUBLIC HEALTH DAYS AVAILABLE FOR CLUBS
87 GLOBAL HACKATHON STUDENTS AND 16 PROJECTS, FROM USA, INDIA, MALTA AND UGANDA.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
“
Our primary mission is to promote public health career pathways through our exceptional curriculum.
The second is to build relationships that enable students to gain impactful, real-world experience through placements at these organizations.
“
Dr. Ashish Joshi, SPH Dean and Distinguished Professor
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND THE COMMUNITY
In the six months since the School of Public Health (SPH) appointed Steve Shular (left) as the Community Outreach Representative, more than forty groups within the Memphis community have connected to explore collaboration opportunities and learn how SPH can positively impact local neighborhoods.
The SPH team has actively listened to the needs of community leaders and shared both the Public Health in Action initiatives as well as opportunities for SPH students to support these efforts.
SPH has worked with 200+ COMMUNITY BASED organizations, governmental agencies and non-governmental partners.
RESEARCH
Center for Population Health Interventions and Outcomes
UofM SPH created a new research center in collaboration with the College of Public Health and Health Informatics (CPHHI), King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) in Saudi Arabia.
CHOICE Center
UofM SPH established the Center for Cardiometabolic Health Outcomes and Interventions through Community Engagement in collaboration with Lifedoc to enhance the promotion and understanding of cardiometabolic conditions in the community.
CRAIPH Center AI for Health Research Lab
UofM SPH established the Center for Responsible Artificial Intelligence in Public Health (CRAIPH) which serves as a research and training infrastructure to promote the responsible and transparent use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in public health.
$7,153,446 2024-25 NEW AWARDS
University of Memphis AI for Health Research Lab is a core initiative of CRAIPH. Funded by the NIH AIM-AHEAD Coordinating Center, the lab addresses pressing public health challenges through responsible use of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Community Stress & Wellness Lab
UofM SPH established the Community Stress and Well-being Lab to improve outcomes to stress and mental health throughout the Mid-South, train graduate researchers and contribute to the SPH CARES mission.
(Right to left) Dr. David Russomanno, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Professor Ashraf Elmetwally, Professor of Epidemiology, CPHHI, KSAU-HS and Dr. Ashish Joshi, SPH Dean
(Left to right) Dr. Asma Ali, Dr. Maryam Karimi, Dr. Xinchen Mou, Dr. Ricky Leung, Dr. Hongmei Zhang, Mrs. Laura Granack, Dr. Pedro Velasquez, Dr. Ann K. Cashion, Mr. Andres Velasquez and Mr. Pedro Velasquez.
The University of Memphis was 1 of 15 awardees selected for the Program for AI Readiness (PAIR) Cohort 2.
CRAIPH works with Memphis area health organizations to develop AI-informed educational programs while piloting AI devices with community partners.
Dr. Alex Parkhouse with the lab team.
RESEARCH AWARDS
Dr. Debra Bartelli
“Food as Medicine Project”. Elevance Health Foundation $111,391
“Lead Environmental Scan and Accountability Map”. Shelby County Government $31,205
Dr. Fanta Gutema
“Genomic Fingerprinting of Enteric and Antimicrobial Resistant Bacteria at the Hygiene and One Health Interface for Tracking Disease Transmission in Urban and Peri Urban Bishoftu town, Ethiopia”. Reckitt Global Hygiene Institute $234,512 and $37,470.70
Dr. John Jefferies
“ECG-AI Based Prediction and Phenotyping of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction”.
NIH $18,206 and Wake Forest University $17,676
Dr. Chunrong Jia
“Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center Program”. EPA $211,557
“Characterization of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) exposure and related protein adductomic signatures to evaluate a local public health intervention in safer degreasers”. King County Department of Public Health $5,000
Dr. Yu Jiang
“Data management and data analyses”. UTHSC $25,772
Dr. Ashish Joshi
“A2 Y2 -Strengthening U.S. Public Health Infrastructure, Workforce and Data Systems”. Shelby County Health Department $1,043,560
“Healthy Start Professional Services for Data Collection and Analysis to provide culturally competent case management and care coordination to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities”.
US DHHS $459,890
“Partnering with High School Educators to Build Pathways to Disease Intervention Certification”.
CDC $199,999
Dr. Maryam Karimi
“Solid Waste Management Impact on Soil-Water Resources Across the Underserved Rural Communities of Black-Belt and the Deep South of Alabama and Mississippi”.
USDA $193,000
“CanAiry: A Wearable Medical Device for Monitoring Environmental Exposure and Assessing Respiratory Response.”
NIH $48,846
Dr. Satish Kedia
“SAMHSA MAT 2021 BVI TBD”. SAMHSA $105,000 and $105,000
“Expanding substance abuse/cooccurring treatment and recovery support services for fentanyl overdose clients in rural middle Tennessee”. SAMHSA $75,000
Dr. Marian Levy
TRAIN Learning Management System: UofM School of Public Health curriculum development.” CDC $300,000
“University of Memphis: Transforming Academic for Equity.” Robert Wood Johnson Foundation $125,000
Dr. Wei Lyu
“Fostering Economic Mobility”. Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (IDHHS) $25,032
“SciTask: Statistical Analysis of NHANES Biomarker Data”. SciPinion, LLC $5,000
Dr. Fawaz Mzayek
“A prospective qualitative exploration of multilevel factors affecting outcome disparities among Black women with breast cancer in Shelby County, TN”. Gilead Sciences, Inc. $21,956
Dr. Latrice Pichon
“Implementation of Rapid HIV Testing and Linkage to HIV Treatment or Prevention Among Vulnerable Populations in Tennessee” Meharry Medical College (MMC) $98,978 and CDC $101,353
“A Multimethod Assessment of the Clinical, Economic & Social Impact of the Rejection of Federal HIV Prevention Funds in Tennessee”, NIH $101,724
“Identifying multilevel facilitators of care outcomes among Positive Deviants to design an intervention for Black sexual minority men living with HIV.”
NIH $13,540
Dr. Meredith Ray
“Optimizing HIV prevention for highly vulnerable methamphetamine-using sexual minority men”. NIH $12,092
Dr. Fedoria Rugless
“SCHD HIV Conference note takers estimate” Shelby County Health Department $4,999.99
Dr. Matthew Smeltzer
“Pathologic Response Early Clinical Endpoint in Neoadjuvant Therapy- Data Coordinating Center (PRECENT-DCC).”
International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer $800,226
“Tennessee Public Health Surveillance Program for Sickle Cell Disease”. CDC $477,129
“Predicting Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease in Sickle Cell Anemia Using Machine Learning Models (PREMIER)”. NIH $20,095
Dr. Hongmei Zhang
“Clusters of Epigenetic Networks at Birth and Asthma Incidence in Children”. NIH $201,912
*Source: UofM
NEW ACCOLADES
The University of Memphis Recognized as a Member Organization of the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI)
Established in 2010, UNAI boasts over 1,600 member institutions from more than 150 countries.
It plays an important role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting innovation and collaboration among students, academics, and researchers.
As a member institution, the University of Memphis can share its teaching methodologies and research, participate in workshops related to the SDGs, and access various resources, including academic events.
UNAI's mission is to enhance the impact of its members while promoting effective practices aligned with United Nations objectives.
DEAN’S FACULTY
MENTORSHIP AWARD: RISER
RISER: Research Initiative Supporting Excellence in early careeR development.
RISER funding is provided by the Office of the Dean of the School of Public Health.
Recipients of pilot seed funding are required to submit a research proposal and at least one publication.
RISER funding aims to support early career faculty in developing innovative research projects.
Each RISER project is funded up to $7,500
RISER AWARD RECIPIENTS 2024
Asma Ali PhD, PharmD
Assistant Research Professor
Division of Health Systems Management and Policy
William C. Bigler, PhD
Assistant Professor
Division of Health Systems Management and Policy
Project Title: Empowering Muslim Communities: Building Capacity through Educational Webinars and RAMADAN Instrument Pre-Testing via Cognitive Interviews.
Objective: This project aims to improve diabetes management during Ramadan through community engagement and pre-testing a culturally tailored RAMADAN instrument for healthcare providers.
Project Title: Student and Career Advancement Through Targeted AUD Research: Identification of Disease, Barriers to Effective Care, and Emerging Solutions.
Objective: This project aims to conduct an exploratory and descriptive analysis of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States, focusing on disease identification, barriers to care, and emerging solutions for effective treatment. The research will leverage existing data and literature to produce actionable analytical briefs, develop testable hypotheses, and draft proposals for federal funding opportunities. It also seeks to foster mentorship and skill-building for graduate students while enhancing the University of Memphis's research capacity.
Project Title: Partnership Development for Antimicrobial Research in Ethiopia
Objective: The aim of this project is to establish a partnership between the University of Memphis and Addis Ababa University to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through a feasibility study and stakeholder engagement.
Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Environmental Health
Alex Parkhouse, PhD, MA
Assistant Professor, Program Coordinator
Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Project Title: Social Stress and Community Health Lab
Objective: This project aims to establish a first-of-its-kind lab to study Memphis's stress and mental health disparities, targeting actionable interventions and graduate training.
NEW INITIATIVES
EMPOWER Summer Initiative
EMPOWER Summer Initiative
The Elevating Memphis Public Health Opportunities With Engaged Researchers (EMPOWER) Initiative is a studentcentered program designed to introduce graduating high school seniors to the field of public health through immersive, real-world experiences.
SPH kicked-off its EMPOWER Summer Initiative: a flagship program of the University of Memphis School of Public Health that introduces high school students to the world of public health through immersive, real-world experiences.
DAY 1 | Why Public Health is Important in the 21st Century
DAY 2 | AI in Public Health
DAY 3 | Storytelling in Public Health
DAY 4 | Global Public Health Opportunities
DAY 5 | Health Systems Strengthening
University of Memphis School of Public Health Receives Memphis City Council
In a historic gesture, City Councilmember Rhonda Logan presented Dean Joshi with a Memphis City Council Resolution, acknowledging his leadership and the numerous successes of the UofM SPH.
These accomplishments include recent increases in research funding and student enrollment, underscoring the school’s commitment to public health education and community service.
(Left to right) Councilmember Philip Spinosa, District 5, Councilmember Edmund Ford, Sr., District 6, Councilmember Janika White, District 8-2, Councilmember Pearl Eva Walker, District 3, Councilmember Rhonda Logan, District 1, Councilmember, Dr. Jeff Warren, District 9-3, Dr. Ashish Joshi, Dean and Distinguished Professor, UofM School of Public Health, Yolanda Cooper-Sutton, District 8-3, Steve Shular, SPH Community Relations Representative.
SPH is GLOCAL : Taking LOCAL
University of Memphis School of Public Health has developed partnerships across organizations from multiple sectors including Tennessee Department of Health, Shelby County Health Department, schools, juvenile and criminal court, sheriff’s office and other community organizations.
TENNESSEE
The Tennessee Dementia ECHO Program has expanded by launching a West Hub through the University of Memphis. The provider education program helps educate providers across Tennessee on best practices for dementia care.
SPH launches a “Speaker Series” with Shelby County Health Department (SCHD).
SPH signs an Affiliate Agreement with the Tennessee Department of Health.
UofM SPH signed a MOU between the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County through the Metropolitan Board of Health.
CDC’S NATIONAL DIS CERTIFICATION PROJECT
The School of Public Health has been awarded funding to advance the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) Certification Project. Implemented by the ASPPH Center for Public Health Workforce Development, the Certified in Disease Intervention (CDI) Program supports the CDC’s efforts to enhance public health services by certifying disease intervention professionals. The School of Public Health project proposal “Partnering with High School Educators to Build Pathways to Disease Intervention Certification,” aims to sensitize high school students to public health disease intervention and the challenges and solutions needed to address them in the 21st century.
TENNESSEE
SHELBY COUNTY
(Center) Courtney Tipper, Deputy Administrator, Operations, SCHD, (right) Stephen Fort, Deputy Administrator, Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program, SCHD, (left) Dr. Ashish Joshi, Dean and Distinguished Professor, UofM, School of Public Health.
Honored guests stand after the March Dean’s Grand Rounds event inside the UC Ballroom at the University of Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee. The presentation, delivered by Dr. Ralph Alvarado, Tennessee Department of Health Commissioner (pictured third from right), took place on March 28, 2025. Also pictured from left to right are Dave Harrell, Director of Special Projects; Misty Hernandez-Perry, Executive Assistant to Dr. Alvarado; Amanda Ables, Director for Healthcare Partnerships; Dr. Michelle Taylor, Director of the Shelby County Health Department; Dr. Ashish Joshi, Dean and Distinguished University Professor for the UofM School of Public Health; and Chelsei Granderson, Public Health Administrator.
Impact to GLOBAL Change
UofM SPH becomes affiliate member of the ASPHER (The Association of Schools of Public Health in the European Region).
PORTUGAL
UofM SPH and University of Minho, Portugal signed a MOU to enable student exchange and enhance the educational experience and cross-cultural understanding of students from both institutions.
PERU
This MOU established a partnership between Rainforest Flow and SPH to advance global WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) education and research in the Manu Biosphere.
SAUDI ARABIA
UofM SPH signed a MOU with the College of Public Health and Health Informatics at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences to enhance collaboration in academic programs, research initiatives, faculty development and student and community engagement — both in Memphis and Saudi Arabia.
INDIA
UofM SPH signed a MOU with Panimalar Engineering College in Chennai, Tamil Nadu to offer public health programs and opportunities for credit transfer as part of this collaborative academic initiative.
(Left to right) Dr. Ilias Kavouras, Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs and Professor, Dr. Maryam Karimi, Director of Research, Dr. Satish Kedia, Associate Dean, Administration & Faculty Affairs, Dr. Ashish Joshi, SPH Dean and a Distinguished University Professor, Professor Ashraf Elmetwally, Professor of Epidemiology, CPHHI, KSAU-HS and Dr. Marian Levy, Associate Dean, Public Health Practice & Community Engagement.
Public Health DIPLOMACY
Public Health Diplomacy Lab
The lab is led by a multidisciplinary team committed to advancing global health through collaboration, innovation, and evidence-informed diplomacy. Our team comprises experts in public health, sociology, epidemiology, and international relations, working together to address complex health challenges and promote health access across borders.
UofM Team Members
THE PUBLIC HEALTH DIPLOMACY PAPER HAS BEEN PUBLISHED IN FRONTIERS:
"Public health diplomacy: summary of the methods and outcome of the first University of Memphis School of Public Health Diplomacy Summit".
Dr. Ashish Joshi (PI and Lead)
Dr. Gretchen Peterson
Dr. Xinhua Yu
Dr. Marian Levy
Dr. Diana Ruggiero
Dr. Beverly Tsacoyianis
School of Public Health Associate Professor of Epidemiology, Program Coordinator
Department of Sociology Professor
School of Public Health Associate Dean of Public Health Practice and Community Engagement, Professor
Department of History Associate Professor of History
Department of World Languages and Literatures Professor of Spanish
School of Public Health Dean and Distinguished Professor
SPH hosted the First School of Public Health Diplomacy Summit
The three-day inaugural summit was organized at the University of Memphis School of Public Health in collaboration with the Global Network for Academic Public Health and Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health — bringing together 29 participants from 15 countries, including representatives from the World Health Organization, the World Federation of United Nations Associations — to identify strategies and competencies essential for advancing public health diplomacy.
Public Health Diplomacy
Lab at UofM SPH is part of the Health Diplomacy Institutional Network.
SPH CARES Champion Award
SPH presents Dr. Michelle Taylor with the inaugural SPH CARES Champion Award
The University of Memphis School of Public Health hosted a celebratory recognition event to highlight the impact Dr. Michelle Taylor (right) — the Shelby County Health Department Director — has had on the SPH Community, Shelby County and the city of Memphis as a whole.
Dean Ashish Joshi (left) presented Dr. Michelle Taylor with the inaugural SPH CARES Champion Award for her “tireless commitment and dedication towards improving public health and advancing the mission and vision of the University of Memphis School of Public Health”.
(Left to right) General Rita Works, Dr. Michelle Taylor, Dean Ashish Joshi and Dr. Jan Young, Executive Director of the Assisi Foundation of Memphis, Inc., pose with the inaugural SPH CARES Champion Award.
2ND ANNUAL DEAN’S AWARDS
2024—25
The School of Public Health (SPH) hosted its 2nd SPH Dean’s Awards ceremony, honoring the outstanding contributions of faculty, staff and students during the 2024–25 academic year. Thirteen individuals were recognized for their exceptional achievements in Community Engagement, Commitment, Research and Leadership.
DEAN’S SPH AWARDS FOR FACULTY
FACULTY RESEARCH:
Dr. Matthew Smeltzer | Associate Professor, Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Environmental Health FACULTY TEACHING:
Dr. Xinhua Yu | Professor, Program Coordinator, Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Environmental Health FACULTY COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
Dr. Lori Ward | Undergraduate Program Coordinator and Associate Professor of Teaching
DEAN’S SPH AWARDS FOR STAFF EXCELLENCE
STAFF LEADERSHIP:
Jamecia Richardson | Experiential Learning and Career Readiness Coordinator
DEAN’S SPH AWARD FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
GRADUATE RESEARCH:
Namuun Batbaatar | Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Environmental Health GRADUATE DISSERTATION:
Kelly Pimenta | Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Environmental Health GRADUATE COMMUNITY SERVICE:
Rameshwari Prasad | Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences
GRADUATE COMMITMENT:
Hannah Badley | Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences
DEAN’S SPH AWARD FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH:
Olivia Manes | Bachelor of Science in Public Health
UNDERGRADUATE COMMUNITY SERVICE:
Jeanbaptist Nizeyimana | Bachelor of Science in Public Health
UNDERGRADUATE COMMITMENT:
Hafsat Sani | Bachelor of Science in Public Health
UNDERGRADUATE SPECIAL RECOGNITION:
Fatmata Bah | Bachelor of Science in Public Health
UNDERGRADUATE SPECIAL RECOGNITION:
Malise Greene | Bachelor of Science in Public Health
FACULTY AND STAFF NEW HIRES 2024—25
Dale Sanders, DO, DHA, MBA Interim Division Director MHA Program Director and Professor Health Systems Management and Policy
William C. Bigler, PhD Assistant Professor Health Systems Management and Policy
Diyala Abdlrasul, MPP Communications and Events Coordinator
Lori Ward, PhD, MS Undergraduate Program Coordinator Associate Professor of Teaching Social and Behavioral Sciences
Asma Ali PhD, PharmD Assistant Research Professor Health Systems Management and Policy
Brian McGoldrick Research and Data Analyst PH IDEAS
Ricky Leung, PhD, MPhil, MS, BA Division Director and Professor Social and Behavioral Sciences
Kallol Kumar Bhattacharyya, MBBS, MA, PhD Health Economist, PH-IDEAS Assistant Professor Health Systems Management and Policy
Stephen Shular Community Outreach Representative
Fedoria
CCRP Public Health Educator and Programs Administrator Center for PH-IDEAS
Kelli Harris, LPC-MHSP ACS PH IDEAS Conferences and Workshops Manager Center for PH-IDEAS
Michelle
Health Informatics Analyst PH IDEAS
Jeu, MPH
Kami Geron, MA Instructional Designer
Pamela DeShields Administrative Assistant
Ashley Ross Senior Project Director
Rugless, PhD,
Sharon Griffin, PhD, MBA, MPM Senior Project Director
SPH IN THE
2024—25
July 12, 2024, University of Memphis Media Room: UOFM SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AMPLIFIES ITS REACH - UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS MEDIA ROOMTHE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS
September 20, 2024, Action News 5: DIGITAL DESK: U OF M SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
September 27, 2024, Daily Memphian: UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS SUMMIT PRESENTS PUBLIC-HEALTH STAKES - MEMPHIS LOCAL, SPORTS, BUSINESS & FOOD NEWS | DAILY MEMPHIAN
September 27, 2024, PRNewswire: UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH ENCOURAGES UNITY AT SUMMIT
October 27, 2024, Commercial Appeal: Opinion: U. OF MEMPHIS PUBLIC HEALTH DIPLOMACY SUMMIT SPOTLIGHTS UNITY
October 28, 2024, Public Health Newswire: HOW TO BATTLE THE ‘POLLUTION’ OF MISINFORMATION AND DISINFORMATION | PUBLIC HEALTH NEWSWIRE
November 14, 2024, UofM Media Room: UOFM RESEARCHERS AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS NIH GRANT FOR INNOVATIVE WEARABLE HEALTH MONITORING DEVICE - UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS MEDIA ROOM - THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS
Dec 11, 2024, Commercial Appeal: MEMPHIS MODELS A YOUTH-LED MOVEMENT TO IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH FOR ALL RESIDENTS | OPINION
March 31, 2025, News Channel 5: ENROLLMENT AT UOFM SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH HAS RISEN BY 20% IN LAST 2 YEARS
April 4, 2025, WREG News Channel 3: PUSH TO BRING PUBLIC HEALTH CLUBS TO MEMPHIS HIGH SCHOOLS
June 12, 2025, WREG News Channel 3: UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS DEAN TACKLES YOUTH PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUES
300+ ENROLLED
Student Enrollment Trends WITH
Student-Faculty Ratio
Students by Degree in 2025
Increase in Total Credit Hours
21%
Increase in Student Head Count and in Student Full-Time Equivalent (FTE)
Beyond the Classroom ALUMNI GROWS 900+
First School of Public Health TO CREATE
AN INNOVATIVE ACADEMIC PATHWAY
The University of Memphis School of Public Health is proud to lead the nation with the first Public Health Dual Enrollment Pathway, giving high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to begin earning college credit toward a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH), continuing through the doctoral level.
12-MONTH School of Public Health
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Expand and sustain model of public health education in high schools locally, nationally and globally.
Expand SPH engagement locally, nationally and globally through its various strategic initiatives.
RESEARCH-BASED SOLUTIONS
Implement grant writing assistance program to support faculty towards diversification of their research funding opportunities.
ACADEMIC INNOVATION AND CURRICULUM EXCELLENCE
New academic proposal around MS Applied Artificial Intelligence in Public Health to be submitted.
Expand recruitment opportunities to advance student enrollment and matriculation at undergraduate and graduate levels.
Revise existing SPH website in collaboration with University of Memphis Office of Marketing and Communications.
Curriculum revisions to the Master of Public Health programs to be finalized.
Establish Dean’s Healthcare Leadership Community Advisory Panel to support the Master of Health Administration (MHA) program housed within the Division of Health Systems Management and Policy.
Expand national and international collaborations around areas of Public Health Diplomacy, high school youth engagement and artificial intelligence in public health.
ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
Strengthen alumni engagement and network.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INNOVATION
Initiate Inaugural “PH-CARES Changemakers” cohort program to support public health innovation and entrepreneurship among SPH students.
STUDENT CENTEREDNESS
Implement New Initiatives
PH Changemakers: to spark student innovation and fuel creativity here in Memphis and beyond.
PH on Wheels: to take learning beyond the classroom and directly into the community, by offering students a behind-the-scenes look at public health in action.
The University of Memphis School of Public Health is committed to being a resource to the community through partnerships, collaborations and engagements.
