After a family member’s struggle with mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, improving mental health became a personal passion for sophomore family science major Alisha Hussain, a 2025 Kara

SPH staff members Lanna Duarte and Mary Shelley were recognized this winter with UMD’s Fearlessly Forward Awards for their outstanding work and innovative projects, and Dr Sarah Peitzmeier is one of 10 faculty to win Independent Scholarship, Research, and Creativity Awards. 

Winter break was no break for School of Public Health faculty who won prestigious memberships that both honor their work thus far and invite them to contribute to national policy and scholarship in their public health disciplines. 

Dr. Kerry Green, a prevention scientist and professor, has been named chair of the Department of Behavioral and Community Health within the University of Maryland School of Public Health. Green previously served as acting chair.

Alvin M. Powers is no stranger to hard work. A visionary leader in the healthcare industry, he built a legacy that extended far beyond business success. Powers dedicated his life to improving the lives of others, and with that, came an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. Upon his passing in November 2023 at age 89, his family and friends established the Alvin M.

A new study out today in Health Affairs shows that state-funded health insurance coverage of abortion is a crucial factor in access, particularly for Black and Hispanic people and people in low-income communities.