Fall 2025 class of MPH students smiling in a group photo in the low learning center

UConn MPH Prepared Me for Thisβ€”Here’s How | Mayra’s Journey

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Jianghong Li to the UConn Department of Public Health Sciences. Dr. Li joins our faculty as a social and behavioral scientist with more than 25 years of experience conducting applied research alongside underserved and marginalized populations experiencing health disparities.

Dr. Li’s work is deeply rooted in community-based and community-engaged research, with a strong emphasis on stakeholder involvement, empowerment, and resilience. Her approach reflects a commitment to partnering with communities to co-create knowledge and solutions that are responsive, ethical, and sustainable.

Learn more about her here: https://shorturl.at/Ze0S5
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#PublicHealth #UConn #PublicHealth #Research

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This week, Officer Jim Barrett stopped by our office to collect donated winter gear, water bottles, and gift cards. These items help our neighbors access warmth, food, and a moment of relief. Our hardworking administrative staff also spent time sorting donations for local shelters and nonprofits, including Hands On Hartford. 

As many in our community face reduced assistance and unexpected challenges, like a $5 fast-food gift card, can make a meaningful difference by helping someone enjoy a warm meal. We’re deeply grateful for everyone who contributed.

We also had a chance to sit down and interview him. Officer Barrett shared insights from his work as a Community Service Officer with the Hartford Police Department, reminding us that homelessness is a public health issue that calls for compassion, collaboration, and awareness of available resources. Follow along to for our winter donation drop off to Hands on Hartford, our upcoming spring cleaning donation drive, along with Barrett's moving interview.
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#PublicHealth #CommunitySupport #UConn #HartfordPolice

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What does a career in public health really look like after graduation? In this alumni spotlight, we sit down with Mayra, a UConn MPH graduate (December 2025), to talk about her academic journey, career path, and what she does now as a public health professional.

Mayra shares how the UConn Master of Public Health (MPH) program prepared her for her current role at the Hispanic Health Council, the skills she gained along the way, and the mentors who made a lasting impact on her academic experience. This conversation offers real insight for students exploring public health careers and anyone considering an MPH degree.

If you’re curious about careers you can pursue with an MPH, what life is like after graduation, or how a public health program can support your goals, this video is for you.

Watch it here:https://shorturl.at/BNeIs
Or visit the link in our bio
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πŸ“Œ Don’t forget to subscribe for more alumni stories, public health career insights, and updates from the UConn Department of Public Health Sciences.

Big thanks to the @hispanichealthcouncil_ct team for participating in the video!
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@itzmayra_ 
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πŸŽ“ Interested in the UConn MPH Program? Visit:mph.uconn.edu
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#MPH #Alumni #StudentStories #ThisisPublicHealth #UConn #PublicHealthCareers

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πŸŽ“ MPH Alumni Spotlight: Mayra Vasquez

A proud UConn MPH alum (Class of December 2025), Mayra shares how the MPH program prepared her for her current role. Along with the mentors who made a lasting impact on her academic journey.

This is just a sneak peek πŸ‘€ Her full interview drops on YouTube next week, so be sure to subscribe to get notified.
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@uconnaphs

Interested in learning more about the UConn MPH?
- Sign up for a virtual info session: link in bio
- Or join us for an in-person Public Health 101 session: link in bio

#MPH #Alumni #StudentStories #ThisisPublicHealth #UConn

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UConn Waterbury
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
12:30 – 1:45 PM
Room 203

Panelists:
Dr. Angela Bermudez – Public Health Sciences
Dr. Mayte Restrepo – Public Health Sciences
Dr. Anna-Michelle McSorley – Allied Health Sciences

This session will focus on how public health research and practice directly support and strengthen communities, with examples rooted in real-world impact.

Register for this session: https://shorturl.at/2oVcw
Or sign up in our bio
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#101Session #PublicHealth #FreeEvent #ForStudents #UConn

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