As a public health professional, I bring more than ten years of experience in improving the health and well-being of those who have been disproportionally impacted by poor health outcomes and lack of access to basic needs. In my current role as Population Health Strategic Development Manager at Cottage Health in Santa Barbara, CA (based remotely in Mānoa), I provide strategy and implementation leadership for the Cottage Center for Population Health. My expertise focuses on facilitating community collaborations, conducting needs assessment, analyzing and communicating findings, developing and implementing public health initiatives and programs, and conducting research and evaluation. Programs and initiatives I have led include the design and operation of a 10-bed medical respite program, a street outreach program, a collaborative to implement screening and referrals for Adverse Childhood Experiences in pediatric clinics, social needs screening among patients and employees, grant making to increase access to behavioral health services, and COVID-19 prevention among Hispanic/Latinx communities. I am a Certified Health Education Specialist and earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Public Health Science from Clemson University.
What I hope to contribute through my board service:
As a board member, I would like to contribute my expertise in guiding the overall mission and organizational strategy to create and implement effective programs and initiatives with iterative, participatory evaluation. I bring a public health perspective formed by present-day experience in a forward-thinking, California hospital system focused on improving the well-being of the most vulnerable members of a community before they need care.
What I hope to learn, accomplish, or gain from board service:
My hope in board service is to increase my awareness and understanding of community needs and opportunities in Oahu and Hawaii. I also hope to increase connections with individuals and organizations who are seeking to improve the health and well-being of the community.
Areas that I’m particularly interested to invest my time, money and energy:
- Behavioral/Mental Health
- Children/Youth
- Food/Agriculture/Nutrition
- General Social Services
- Health/Healthcare/Health Research
- Housing/Homelessness
- Social Justice
Amount of time I am likely able to contribute:
8 to 12 hours per month (~2-3 hrs/wk)
My prior nonprofit board experience:
I have not previously served on a nonprofit board
Additional information:
On a personal level, I appreciate opportunities to be active and outside, including hiking, biking, swimming, and snorkeling. I’m an enthusiast of healthy eating and locally and sustainably grown foods and agricultural. In terms of values, my Christian faith is the foundation for my life, my work, and my passions.