Kristen Cunningham’s road to global health leadership began in Detroit, Michigan—a city that has long faced profound public health challenges. Growing up in a community where health disparities were starkly visible, Kristen’s early ambition was to become a doctor. She enrolled at Wayne State University (WSU) as a pre-med student, with biology as her major. However, during her undergraduate years, she discovered something that would alter her trajectory entirely: the field of public health.
While at WSU, Kristen shifted her focus to sociology, exploring the social determinants of health and their impact on communities like hers. Through a program called the Initiative for Maximizing Student Development, she developed a passion for research and public health, setting the foundation for her career.
“Understanding the broader systems that affect health outcomes felt like the key to creating meaningful change,” Kristen reflects.
When it came time to choose a graduate school, Kristen was drawn to Indiana University (IU) and its Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health. The faculty’s interests closely aligned with her own, and IU’s reputation as a leading research institution offered her the chance to deepen her expertise. She first pursued a Master of Public Health (MPH) at IU but soon realized she wanted to expand her knowledge even further.
Despite the unconventional choice of pursuing a second degree in the same field, Kristen enrolled in the Master of Science in Global Health and Sustainable Development (MSGHSD) program at Fairbanks. The school’s flexibility and support allowed her to transition seamlessly, bridging her public health foundation with a global perspective.
Today, Kristen is a program manager in the Department of Pediatric Infectious Disease at the IU School of Medicine. In this role, she collaborates with her mentor, Dr. Megan McHenry, on research projects that address pressing global health issues, particularly in Kenya.
“Our work focuses on improving health outcomes for underserved populations,” Kristen explains. “It’s a dream come true to apply my skills in a real-world context.”
Her journey has already taken her to Kenya, where she contributed to protocol development and research implementation. The experience not only solidified her commitment to global health but also gave her a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the field.
Kristen’s long-term goals are ambitious. She plans to pursue a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) and transition into teaching and consulting while continuing her research.
“I want to build a thriving career that combines education, mentorship, and impactful initiatives,” she shares. “Global health is my passion, and I’m committed to making a meaningful difference through equity, inclusivity, and social justice.”
One of Kristen’s most impactful experiences was her internship with the Komen Tissue Bank (KTB) under Dr. Michele Cote, whose work she had followed since her time at Wayne State. During her eight months with the KTB, Kristen volunteered at tissue collection events, participated in community outreach, worked with the minority recruitment team, and managed social media efforts.
“Contributing to Dr. Cote’s work was incredibly rewarding,” Kristen recalls. “It gave me valuable skills and a deeper understanding of the research process.”
The trip to Kenya in 2024 was another highlight. There, Kristen had the chance to apply her academic knowledge to real-world challenges, reinforcing her dedication to addressing health disparities in underserved communities.
Reflecting on her journey, Kristen shares one piece of advice: “Don’t let fear hold you back from pursuing what you love. The worst that can happen is a ‘no,’ but the regret of not trying is far greater.”
This mindset has been transformative for Kristen, particularly when she almost talked herself out of applying for her current role. “Self-doubt can be overwhelming,” she admits. “But pushing through that fear has opened doors I never imagined.”
As Kristen continues to grow in her role, she remains committed to lifelong learning and professional development. Her immediate goals include publishing research, teaching, and expanding her network. Ultimately, she envisions a career that combines research, teaching, and consulting to drive positive change in global health.
“My passion for this work is rooted in equity and social justice,” Kristen says. “I’m determined to use my skills and experiences to improve health outcomes for underserved communities worldwide.”
Kristen’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, curiosity, and a commitment to making a difference. For students considering a career in global health, her experience offers both inspiration and a roadmap to success.
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