Formally trained in biological anthropology, I have acquired additional research and evaluation skills through nine years of health care disparities research at SUNY Buffalo, four years evaluating health care education and exposure programs as the director of evaluation for NYS AHEC (Area Health Education Center) and three years as a recipient of an NIH Loan Repayment Grant in Minority Health Disparities. Subsequent to this research and evaluation career, I transitioned to a teaching position wherein I balance teaching, department chair responsibilities and the role of Associate Director of the Center for Doctoral Studies & Research. My research and advocacy foci have consistently been community health and culturally responsive healthcare and services. I am integrated into the community here in Buffalo, as a Community Health Worker trainer at Community Network for Engagement, Connection, and Transformation (CoNECT) and leader of community outreach and engagement at D’Youville University. I also serve as a leader in the University at Buffalo Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSA award). Foundational to my research and evaluation is a philosophy of doing things with community rather than to them or for them.
