I am a Professor of Public Health in the Department of Nutrition and Health Science, located within the College of Health at Ball State University. I earned my doctorate in lifestyle medicine and public health education from Indiana University. My research focuses on the prevention, arrest and reversal of the most common chronic diseases facing Americans today. I have authored and co-authored multiple textbooks on the steps to building healthy habits to enhance the multidimensional components of human health. I am deeply grateful to those who continue to teach me daily: my students.
Most recently, I am privileged to have Maurita Greene and Ava Monroe on my research team. The way in which they embrace learning – by being intellectually curious and inquisitive – provides a feedback loop that helps keep me focused on my research that seeks to produce more meaningful, applicable results that directly benefit human health. The goal of our current research is to translate (move) our discoveries more quickly and efficiently into clinical and community practice.
I am pursuing my MPH in Social and Behavioral Science at IU-Fairbanks School of Public Health. My journey in Public Health began during my undergrad studies at Ball State, where I embarked on an enriching research collaboration with Dr. Kotecki focusing on key health behaviors associated with preventing or reversing chronic diseases in adults. Our research findings have been presented at national conferences and published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. These experiences have ignited my passion for translational research and understanding how scientific knowledge is applied to drive meaningful change for individuals and communities. I learned that research extends beyond the accumulation of facts; it challenges perceptions, fosters critical thinking, and cultivates innovative approaches to addressing complex health issues.
Working alongside Dr. Kotecki not only deepened my understanding of public health principles but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the transformative power of research. I'm dedicated to leveraging research to improve public health outcomes and ensure equitable access to healthcare. My journey has equipped me with the skills and perspective to navigate the dynamic field of public health research and advocacy.
I am currently pursuing a major in Multimedia Design and Development with a concentration in information design and prototyping at the School of Journalism and Strategic Communication at Ball State University. My journey into the realm of public health began when I enrolled in Dr. Kotecki’s Principles of Public Health course. Driven to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, I found myself drawn to the field of public health. Inspired by this newfound passion, I was honored to be invited to join Dr. Kotecki and Maurita Greene’s translational behavioral health research team.
Recognizing the transformative potential of digital health solutions, my aim was to design an accessible, actionable, consumer-centric website that transcends barriers of health literacy and caters to the diverse needs of all users. My goal is to continue harnessing the power of multimedia design and technology to promote health equity and empower individuals to take control of their well-being.