I am excited to share that I applied to be a session leader at the Rural Roots Conference in Lexington, KY, this Spring. I hope to be able to share practical and insightful commentary on rural food insecurity and its root causes. This is a subject that, if you have been following me, you know, … Continue reading Applied for Rural Roots!
Tag: community-health
Rural Mental Health Day
When we think of rural lifestyles and farmers, we often think of idyllic landscapes and slow lives that allow people to cherish the moment, escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and have better mental health. However, that is not always the case. When looking at the data, we see farmers in the last … Continue reading Rural Mental Health Day
Honored to Be a Finalist for the University of Tennessee’s 3 Minute Thesis Competition
I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been honored as a finalist in the University of Tennessee’s 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) competition! This opportunity is more than just a platform to speak about my research—it’s a chance to share meaningful insights on rural food deserts and the critical importance of food access in creating healthier communities. … Continue reading Honored to Be a Finalist for the University of Tennessee’s 3 Minute Thesis Competition
Bridging the Gap: The Role of Universities in Community Engagement
As I reflect on my journey through the Community Engagement Academy at the University of Tennessee, I am struck by the profound responsibility that universities and researchers have toward the communities that support and sustain them. This experience has not only shaped my understanding of public health but has also reinforced my belief that academic … Continue reading Bridging the Gap: The Role of Universities in Community Engagement
Hurricane Helene – Devastaing Appalachia
It has taken me weeks to feel that I can put into words my emotions about the destruction and devastation that has occurred in Appalachia from Hurricane Helene. My heart breaks thinking about the communities and families that have been torn apart, especially as clean-up efforts seem slow and the death counts rise... Like most … Continue reading Hurricane Helene – Devastaing Appalachia
MonkeyPox (mpox): What is it? Why are we talking about it? Should you worry yet?
Here's the overview: Monkeypox is a disease with symptoms that are similar, but less severe than smallpox. Mpox has been reported for many years in areas of central and west Africa. Mpox has made the news recently with WHO declaring the spread of mpox to be a cause of international concern. Currently, there are no … Continue reading MonkeyPox (mpox): What is it? Why are we talking about it? Should you worry yet?
Communities are Unique – It’s important to Identify that early in Landscape Analysis.
When beginning initial assessments and evaluations, it's essential to acknowledge what makes a community unique. So, what does that mean? And, more importantly, how do I do that? The current projects I'm working on are in the initial phases of intervention: needs assessment and landscape analysis. We're going to our communities, talking to locals, and … Continue reading Communities are Unique – It’s important to Identify that early in Landscape Analysis.
The Role of Community Engagement in Public Health
As a public health professional, I am deeply aware of our community's interconnectedness and its role in community health. I also know, and have learned in my Master’s program, that without community support, it can be highly challenging to implement effective, impactful change in communities. The people we as health professionals talk to, are critical … Continue reading The Role of Community Engagement in Public Health