Finding a passion for helping others live healthier lives

Shay Bex never anticipated a career in public health—it found her.

Starting her academic journey as a biology major, Shay was unsure of her direction but knew that she was passionate about health. It wasn’t until her two roommates, both public health majors, introduced her to the field that everything began to make sense.

“Their enthusiasm caught my interest, and on a whim, I decided to take an introductory course in community health,” she recalls. “Everything just clicked. I fell in love with the focus on prevention and the potential to create lasting, positive change in communities.”

That fateful decision led Shay to pursue both a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) in 2021 and a Master of Public Health (MPH) in 2023 at the Fairbanks School of Public Health. Reflecting on her time at the school, Shay emphasizes how it helped her find her true passion.

“It was like finding a missing piece of myself—a deep-seated passion for helping others live healthier lives.”

Upon completing her degrees, Shay embarked on a career at the Henry County Health Department. Initially joining as an intern in 2021, she started at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was challenging to find an opportunity in the midst of so much uncertainty,” she says. Yet, Shay quickly realized this was where she was meant to be. “I was hired full-time as the COVID vaccine project coordinator, and it was all hands on deck. I assisted with vaccine clinics, managed registrations, and handled the critical behind-the-scenes work.”

By 2023, Shay’s dedication earned her a promotion to director of health promotion and disease prevention. In this role, she now oversees her own department, focusing on youth substance use prevention, a cause particularly close to her heart.

“Our department is heavily involved in the CDC Drug-Free Communities Grant, and it’s incredibly rewarding to work on such a critical issue for our community,” she shares.

A typical day for Shay is a busy one, balancing program planning, budget management, and coalition meetings with local leaders.

“I attend community meetings where we discuss public health challenges, and I’m constantly developing and refining initiatives to meet the needs of our community,” she explains. “It’s this variety and the ability to make a tangible impact that keeps me motivated.”

When asked what advice she would give her younger self, Shay stresses the importance of networking and hands-on experience.

“Relationships are everything in public health. Connect with peers, mentors, and professionals early on. Get involved in projects—you never know where your passion might lead.”

This approach has clearly worked for Shay, as her career trajectory has been shaped by her willingness to embrace new opportunities and challenges. One key lesson she carried from her studies into her career is adaptability.

“Public health is always evolving, and being able to pivot quickly is essential,” Shay notes. “Whether it was group projects in school or managing the ever-changing needs of our community, adaptability has helped me stay resilient.”

Her most significant achievement since graduation? Taking on the leadership role in her department.

“Being promoted to director of health promotion and disease prevention was a pivotal moment for me. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the direct results of our work in the community,” she says.

This role has allowed Shay to make a difference on a larger scale, particularly in addressing youth substance use prevention, an area she is deeply passionate about.

Looking ahead, Shay is already working toward her next goal—completing an MBA at the University of Southern Indiana.

“I’m eager to deepen my understanding of business and management, which will be invaluable for future grant writing and expanding the impact of our programs.”

As she continues to build a career centered on community health, Shay fondly remembers her time at Indiana University Indianapolis. One of her favorite memories? Something as simple as daily trips to Caribou Coffee.

“Those coffee runs were a vital part of my routine that kept me grounded and sane throughout my undergrad years. They were a comforting ritual amidst the whirlwind of classes and campus life.”

Shay’s journey from biology major to public health leader is a testament to the power of finding one’s passion—and the difference a public health degree can make. For anyone considering a similar path, her message is clear: “Stay open to where your passion might lead you, and trust the process.”