Alumni

WECARE 2.0, a digitally delivered health promotion program for Chinese American dementia caregivers, is easy to use for all literacy levels and increases social supports. An innovative assessment by PhD student Kang Shen highlights that self-report feedback and website activity are crucial for understanding the delivery of a digital intervention.

Kevin Cevasco, supported by the Gates Foundation, is assessing infectious disease recruitment strategies.

From improving underserved communities’ care to supporting faculty research on women living with HIV, Janell Addo-Boateng, MPH ’25, gained hands-on experience in policy, evaluation, and communication.

Phazhon Nash, BS in Community Health ’21, says his George Mason education provided him with the skills necessary to ensure the present and future health of his community, while serving as the youngest elected member of the Roanoke City Council.

Perry, a globally renowned environmental and occupational health scientist and Inaugural Dean of the College of Public Health, has been recognized for her leadership, innovation, and excellence in public health education.

Zerena Martinez Murillo wants to transform public health policy in Central America

Gina S. Brown, PhD, MSA, RN, FAAN (PhD Nursing ’99), has made history as the first woman to become president of Oakwood University. Recognized nationally as a leader in nursing and education, Brown brings extensive experience revitalizing academic institutions and fostering community engagement. She credits her time at George Mason University as a formative and supportive chapter in her journey.

Felicia Baez-Smith, MPH ’19,has built a powerful public health career rooted in community impact, leading initiatives from opioid overdose prevention to pandemic response and mental health advocacy. Recently named to George Mason’s 2025 Forty Under 40 by the Black Alumni Chapter, her journey—from student advocate to statewide public health leader—shows how one person’s dedication can transform systems, uplift communities, and inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center President Jeff Joyner and Vice President of Operations—and two-time Mason School of Nursing alumna—Heather Causseaux recently toured the Lab for Immersive Technologies and Simulation. Their visit underscored Sentara’s interest in strengthening its simulation capabilities and exploring the groundbreaking virtual reality advancements at the College of Public Health.

George Mason recently welcomed Martin Binks as professor and chair of the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies. He brought a new special topics course with him to the College of Public Health: NUTR 594 or “Motivation: Learning to Coach.”