Tobacco Prevention Coordinator
PartnerSHIP 4 Health

What is your background? 

I am originally from Texas, but lived most of my life in Grand Forks, ND.  I hold an Associate’s Degree in Computer Networking from Northland Community & Technical College, a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise Science & Wellness, a Bachelor’s of Science in Community Nutrition w/ a minor in Health Education (both from University of North Dakota), and a Master of Public Health from North Dakota State University.

What did you specialize in at NDSU?

Health Promotion

How did the NDSU MPH prepare you for the workforce?

The education I received through the NDSU MPH program taught me how to refine my background in community health into a way of thinking; a whole new way of approaching health matters.  Each professor contributed their specialty which really makes us graduates a composite of some of the best minds in public health.  This excellence is well received in our state and allowed me to obtain a position in public health before I graduated!

What is your current position or academic pursuit?

I am the Tobacco Prevention Coordinator for PartnerSHIP 4 Health.  I report to a 4-county health board consisting of Clay, Becker, Wilkin, and Otter Tail Counties.  I am responsible for providing both education and helping pass ordinances surrounding tobacco prevention in this area and at the state level (Minnesota).