Undergraduate institutions and degrees
Ferris state university- Bachelor of Science

Graduate institutions and degrees
Western Michigan University- Master of Public Administration and Affairs

Hometown – City, State, and Country (if not the U.S.)
Kalamazoo, MI

Area of Focus
Homeland Security & Crisis Management Law

Employer
Department of Energy and Environment

Job title
Public Health Analyst

What was the topic of your capstone project? Why did you choose that topic? What did you learn?
The topic I chose for my capstone focused on the life long impacts of lead poisoning on people of color and the importance of creating strong legislation to eradicate the presence of lead. I chose this topic because lead is an issue that has plagued our country for years. It is an issue that can be solved if enough people care to create laws and regulations to remove it from homes.
   
I learned that lead poisoning has decreased over the years, yet still is a huge problem in our country. Many states have laws to assist, but need enforcement authority and funding to get the work done.

Finish this sentence: I could not have gotten through the MSL program without…
I could not have gotten through the MSL program without the support of the dean and my professors. This is the first degree I’ve obtained as a single mom, working full time. Especially during the pandemic completing work became very challenging. My professors were always available for support and guidance.

Who are your mentors? How have they impacted your journey?
My mentors are LaTricea Adams of Black Millennials for Flint and Jayne Deichmeister of DOEE. In public health i am able to be supported in my lead advocacy through BM4F and able to reach a wider audience. Through Jayne, I’ve learned so much regarding HAZMAT and emergency response. Through the opportunities they both have given me, I’ve learned so much and it pushed me to complete this degree so i can be more impactful.

Who was your favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor in this program is professor Vesely. He spoke to me throughout the program about my career goals and how various courses related to my current role and my future career goals. I appreciate the conversation and guidance from him.

What was your favorite class and why?
My favorite class was law and policy of emergency management. I felt this course linked my passion for public health and emergency management together. I learned a lot and enjoyed all the readings and knowledge i gained in this course.

How will you use what you learned in the MSL program?
I will use what i learned to continue the fight against lead poisoning. I will also use it by applying the things that I’ve learned in my emergency management duties during this current pandemic.

Write a message.
Thank you to my son Carter. He was patient when I needed to work on homework or had a live assignment to do during our normal play time. I want to think family and friends who supported my decision to go back for my second masters which i felt was necessary for the continued growth in my public health emergency management career.
   
Thank you to Dean Edwards and all my professors for assisting me in tough times and challenging me to push myself to keep going.
   
Last but not least, thank you God for blessing me with this opportunity and I’m excited for my future now that i have added this degree.