Health Equity Academy In System Transformation 2024-25 Fellows
Benedicta Agbodza
Benedicta Agbodza is a current pharmacy leadership fellow who is joining our program to further develop her training and knowledge in health equity. Born and raised in The Bronx to Ghanaian immigrant parents, Benedicta’s commitment to advocating for underserved communities was profoundly influenced by the health disparities she witnessed in her community and the challenges her extended family faced upon immigrating to the United States. These experiences have driven her passion for addressing inequities in healthcare and ensuring that marginalized populations receive the support and resources they need. Through her fellowship, Benedicta aims to deepen her understanding and enhance her ability to effect positive change in health equity.Benedicta is a Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Business Administration graduate from Howard University. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University at Albany, where she majored in chemistry.
Brianna A. Baker
Brianna A. Baker (she/her/hers) is a doctoral candidate in the Counseling Psychology Ph.D. program at Columbia University. She is completing her last year of clinical training as a clinical and community psychology Fellow at Yale School of Medicine. Brianna’s research and clinical interests broadly include sociopolitical determinants of mental health, Black youth and families, and ameliorating sociohistorical racial trauma through community-focused program development and policy-level interventions. Her dissertation explores the complexities of the Black mother-daughter matrix related to gendered racial identity and socialization. She hopes to mesh her passions for communications, public health, and psychology to bring African American mental health to the forefront of America’s social, moral, and political agendas to advance racial and health equity.
Ashley Cofield
Ashley Cofield, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), is a passionate advocate for health equity with a diverse background in promoting systemic change. Her dedication to empowering individuals and communities to thrive is evident throughout her work in healthcare and non-profit settings. As the Social Work Case Management Team Lead at Erlanger Health, Ashley leverages her clinical expertise to equip the team to support patients in navigating complex systems, securing vital resources, and receiving person-centered care. Ashley’s passion for social justice is further demonstrated by her leadership roles as President of the Olde Town Brainerd Neighborhood Association and a member of the Erlanger DEI Council. She holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from UNC Chapel Hill. Ashley is eager to contribute her skills and experiences to Families USA’s Health Equity Academy, where she aims to further develop her knowledge and network to become a powerful advocate for equitable healthcare access.
Erica Craven
Erica Craven is originally from Venezuela, where she obtained her Dental Degree in 2009. She has always been passionate about healthcare, education, and community service. In 2011, she moved to the US and pursued her Dental Hygiene career. Since her graduation and for approximately 9 years, she was able to follow her passion for public health by providing care at a Community Health Center in Idaho, where she found a new way to see herself, not only as a clinician and educator, but as an advocate for her patients and the community. She also served as president of the Idaho Dental Hygienist Association and functioned as a liaison between the Dental Hygiene Association, the Dental Association, and the Board of Dentistry to improve services to long term care facilities. In 2022, Erica and her family decided to move to Florida, where new doors in the public health arena opened for her. In 2023 She volunteered with Florida Voices for Health (FVH) and had the opportunity to help with their regional convenings about oral health and visited the Florida Capiton for the first time. Since January of 2024 Erica has been working as the Oral Health Coalition Manager for FVH, where she is looking forward to integrating her knowledge and experience in dentistry, primary care, and community health, with her new skills in public health and advocacy. She also currently serves in the Board of Director of the National Network for Oral Health Access (NNOHA) and manages the Funders Oral Health Policy Group (FOHPG). In her free time Erica enjoys running, baking, traveling, and catching up with friends. More than anything she loves spending time with family playing board games, watching movies, and enjoying the outdoors together.
Myesha Davis
Myesha Davis is a driven and compassionate individual with a strong commitment to social justice and advocacy. Born and raised in Chicago, Ill. Myesha developed a deep sense of community and a desire to make a positive impact on the world. She pursued higher education and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism with a concentration in multi media from Louisiana State University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University Of Southern California. During her time in college, Myesha discovered her passion for social justice, particularly in the areas of racial and gender equality. This ignited a fire within her to fight for the rights and empowerment of marginalized communities. After graduating, Myesha founded an accredited Board of Elementary and Secondary Education private preschool dedicated to empowering underrepresented children and communities in the Shreveport/Bossier area. Through her work, she gained a profound understanding of the challenges faced by these communities and became determined to use her skills and knowledge to create tangible change. In addition to her professional work, Myesha is an accomplished writer , and corporate policy maker for the U.S. Department of Labor contract companies, which focus on social justice, personal development, and mental health. Writing allows her to express her thoughts and ideas in a creative and impactful way, and she hopes to continue sharing her stories and experiences with a larger audience in the future. Outside of work, Myesha finds solace in family, nature, practicing yoga, and immersing herself in different cultures through travel. These activities remind her of the diversity and beauty that exists in the world, and they inspire her to continue fighting for a more inclusive and compassionate society. Overall, Myesha Davis is a dedicated and passionate individual who is committed to making a difference in the world. With her unwavering determination and empathy, she believes that by working together and embracing our differences, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.
Kimberly A. Foster
Kimberly A. Foster is the current Managing Director of Operations for Wellness at KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools, where she oversees the health, safety, and nutrition programs. With over 30 years of nursing experience, Kimberly brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. She is currently completing her doctorate in nursing at Georgia State University. Kimberly’s extensive career includes pivotal roles at the Georgia Department of Community Health—Medicaid, Georgia Department of Human Resources—Residential Child Care, and Caring for Babies with AIDS. She has also worked with WellStar Health Systems and Cedars-Sinai Health Systems. Throughout her career, Kimberly has served as a Pediatric Nurse and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, demonstrating her dedication to providing comprehensive care and support to vulnerable populations. Her diverse background and commitment to health equity make Kimberly a valuable asset to the KIPP community and a leader in promoting wellness and safety in educational settings.
Dr. JorDonna Frazier
Early in her budding pharmacy career, Dr. JorDonna Frazier quickly witnessed healthcare disparities. JorDonna has always done her best to provide equitable healthcare experiences within all communities. As a technician, she learned how to research resources and assist patients with signing up for saving programs. Additionally, she recognized populations that needed assistance with medication adherence and asked if they needed pill-blister packs prepared. She asked mentors how to access resources at home in order to research alternative medication options for uncovered medications then verified these drug appropriateness with pharmacists and called applicable providers to succinctly relay their options. JorDonna’s attentiveness and willingness to find ways to support all clients further developed during her pharmacy rotations, industry jobs, and her drug information residency. As a recent Doctorate of Pharmacy graduate from University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Dr. Frazier is eager to begin making meaningful changes in healthcare advocacy.
Tamara Gallman
Tamara Gallman bio coming soon.
Sheri Howard PhD, RN, CHSE
Sheri Howard PhD, RN, CHSE has over 21 years of simulation experience with proven mastery in creating, designing, executing and evaluating simulation learning. Dr. Howard has been instrumental in using simulation to teach students about health equity and had utilized the poverty simulations in both the graduate and undergraduate level . Her research includes the use of simulation, debriefing, and innovative technologies in nursing education. Her current research includes the use of Virtutal Reality to desensitize autistic children to healthcare procedures and using Virtual Reality with students and patients to further develop understanding and bridge the gap of heath inequities.
Britney Lawrence
Britney Lawrence is a fourth-year pharmacy student at Howard University College of Pharmacy with a background in biological sciences and a passion for medicine and healthcare policy. She is from Carrsville, VA. She graduated from Norfolk State University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Britney is a member of Industry Pharmacists Organization (IPhO) and the Student National Pharmaceutical Association (SNPhA). Through these organizations, she has developed a keen interest in the intersection of pharmacy practice and healthcare policy. Britney holds certifications in Medication Therapy Management and Mental Health First Aid which highlights her commitment to providing comprehensive patient care. In addition to her academic and professional pursuits, she has taken on several leadership roles. As the Community Service Chair for IPhO, she has worked to serve the community. Previously, she served on the HUCOP Student Grievance Committee where she advocated for her peers and worked to resolve student concerns. Britney is prepared to make impactful efforts in the realms of medicine and healthcare advocacy.
Karina Marin LeStrange
Karina Marin LeStrange is a bilingual physician assistant, proficient in Spanish, which enhances her ability to serve a diverse patient population. Born to immigrant parents, Karina embodies a strong work ethic and dedication to healthcare. She earned her bachelor’s in biology, graduating summa cum laude from Rutgers University, and her master’s degree from Pace University–Lenox Hill Hospital Physician Assistant Program-NYC. Currently, she serves as Co-Lead Surgical PA at Hudson Regional Hospital, where she played a pivotal role in establishing the hospital’s inaugural surgical PA program. Her career spans specialties including neurosurgery, orthopedics, OB/GYN, and pain management, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to patient care. Karina’s volunteer efforts and fundraising achievements in the community have been recognized, showcasing her dedication beyond her professional responsibilities. Her commitment to continuous learning and involvement in various professional organizations highlights her drive for professional growth. Karina’s dedication to patient care, community involvement, and professional development emphasizes her commitment to making a positive impact in healthcare.
Isamar Mendoza
Isamar Mendoza is a dedicated social worker at the University of Chicago Medicine’s Family Birth Center. Since July 2020, Isamar has been supporting patients in the Inpatient Obstetrics Department, addressing critical issues such as parenting, mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence, and child welfare. They serve as a vital liaison between medical teams, child welfare systems, and community organizations to ensure family safety and well-being. Active in shaping policy through committees like the Perinatal Loss Committee and Birth Equity, Isamar is committed to health equity. With a strong background in clinical practice from La Rabida Children’s Hospital and Heartland Alliance, they hold a Masters of Arts in Public Policy from the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, graduating in December 2023. She also holds a Masters of Social Work from the University of Chicago Jane Adams College of Social Work, graduating in May 2015.
Joy Powell
Joy Powell is a passionate and experienced professional in the field of community health. With over two decades of experience, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to helping others and improving health outcomes for underserved populations. Her innovative and statistical approaches to health initiatives have had a significant impact on the communities she has served. Powell serves as the Director of Community Health Director for the Baptist Health Care System in Pensacola, Florida. Positioning the faith-based community on developing and integrating innovative, statistical approaches to advance health initiatives and healthcare research specifically targeting high risk and under-resourced populations. Powell has a Bachelor of Health Leadership, Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Public Policy and is a Doctoral Candidate in Health Administration.
Richard Rodriguez (he/they)
Richard Rodriguez (he/they) is a staff dentist at Southcentral Foundation, a Native-owned nonprofit that serves roughly 70,000 Alaska Native and Native American people living in Anchorage and the surrounding area of Alaska. He provides comprehensive dental care on a daily basis in addition to traveling with a team to remote villages of Alaska a few times a year. Richard discovered his passion for accessible and equitable oral healthcare during the early years of his dental school education. He founded a student-led dental public health organization during his time there to educate colleagues on the importance of health policy and its implications for oral health. Richard earned his Bachelor of Sciences in Biology with minors in History and Business Administration from University of the Incarnate Word, a Doctor of Dental Surgery from Texas A&M University School of Dentistry, and a Master of Public Health from Yale University.
Rosana Solis-Garcia
Rosana Solis-Garcia started her career with UAMS as a bilingual COVID-19 Contact Tracer, where she sought to help slow the spread of COVID-19 among the Latino/Hispanic population by providing resources and information during their illness and quarantine. She later transitioned to the navigation and vaccination clinic team where she executed outreach, educated the community on COVID vaccines, and coordinated vaccine events in the community. Rosana was part of the USDA research project, a study of delivering healthy food to participants who have type 2 diabetes, she collaborated with recruitment, food deliveries, dietary recalls, and health screenings. Rosana was embedded with the NWA council where she helped coordinate and facilitate events on a larger capacity for the council. She is now a Certified CHW, mentor and facilitator with the UAMS Training Apprenticeship Program. Rosana holds an associate degree in business administration with considerable experience in finance, analytics, billing, collections, and customer service.
Dr. Rubin Sorrell II, MPH, DDS
Dr. Rubin Sorrell II, MPH, DDS, is a dedicated dental professional and public health advocate focused on reducing dental health disparities. As the Founder and President of Dental Robin Hood, a nonprofit organization, he leads initiatives that promote oral health awareness and provide essential dental services to underserved communities. Through innovative programs like the Dental Robin Hood Project, Anomaly Program, and Cut N Care Initiative, Dr. Sorrell is committed to community outreach and education. In his role as a Staff Dentist, Dr. Sorrell specializes in providing comprehensive care to patients with special needs and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to ensure high-quality, compassionate care. He is also an active member of the District 10 Children’s Oral Health Community-Based Taskforce, working to improve oral health outcomes for young children and pregnant women in San Francisco’s Black/African American community. Dr. Sorrell holds a Doctorate in Dental Surgery from UCSF School of Dentistry and a Master’s in Public Health from A.T. Still University, highlighting his commitment to health equity and community well-being.
Crystal Spring, RDH, BS, LAP
Crystal Spring, RDH, BS, LAP has over 23 years of experience as a clinical RDH, as well as advocating for access to care. She has a diverse resume including a mobile non-profit, mentorship program, grant writing, and interprofessional education. Her unique experience caring for patients in varying public health and clinical settings has empowered her vision to help others to take the leap into untraditional preventative dental settings. Crystal has served in state and national leadership roles. She is a national award-winning RDH receiving the 2017 ADHA/HuFriedy Master Clinician Award, the, 2019 Sunstar RDH Award of Distinction, the 2020 Today’s RDH Honor Award, and the 2021 Dimensions Six Dental Hygienists You Want To Know, 2023 Denobi Award. Crystal’s spirited approach to leadership and advocacy has allowed her to share her passion for public health, and equitable preventative services for everyone. Areas of Expertise: Public speaking, Mobile and Teledentistry, Public Health, and Advocacy.
Anjali Taneja, MD MPH
Anjali Taneja, MD MPH (@losanjalis) Anjali is a family physician and DJ who is passionate about reimagining healthcare and healing. She ran for state House of Representatives in New Mexico in 2024 and won 41% of the vote in a competitive four-way primary race. She has helped support and pass statewide legislation including a bill to ensure addictions treatment in prisons; the Patient Debt Collections Protections Act; and Medicaid Forward. Anjali is the Executive Director of Casa de Salud (@casadesaludnm) — a culturally humble and anti-racist nonprofit model of care that aims to transform the biomedical model into one of solidarity with community and collective care. Anjali is board certified in family medicine and addiction medicine, and also works in the ER of a rural hospital in Navajo Nation. She was appointed to UNM Hospital’s Board of Trustees, to the Governor’s Council on Racial Justice, and to the NM Primary Care Council. She was an RWJF Clinical Scholar and a Next City Vanguard Fellow. Anjali founded CureThis — an online community for health workers.
Almetria Turner, CCHW, CLES, CPPC, CPST, CMHE, RYT, RPYT, REC-C, MA
Almetria Turner, CCHW, CLES, CPPC, CPST, CMHE, RYT, RPYT, REC-C, MA (she/her) is a Multi-Hyphenate Wellness DisruptHER, Full Spectrum Doula, Reproductive Justice and Health Equity Advocate redefining holistic, community, and maternal health to improve positive birth experiences, healthier outcomes and sustainable lifestyles. She earned her Bachelors and Masters degree in Journalism with an emphasis in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of Memphis, a Certificate in Women’s Entrepreneurship from Cornell University and a Certificate in Community Health from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. She is the proud owner Roots and River Wellness, a full spectrum doula and perinatal service company helping women, birthing people and their families become rooted and grounded while celebrating the joys of pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood. Passionate about social justice, health and racial equity, Almetria sits on several local, regional and national boards such as the USLCA National Advisory Board, Cribs for Kids National Program Advisory Board and various TN Department of Health task forces. Almetria is a member of Postpartum Support International’s Perinatal Mental Health Volunteer Support Coordinators, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Junior League of Oxford.
Tiffany Vassell
Tiffany Vassell is a dedicated advocate for maternal health and equity, currently serving as the Manager of Community Engagement and Communications at the Neighborhood Birth Center. With nearly a decade of experience as a labor and delivery nurse, she has also worked as a substance use nurse, assisting patients in their recovery in Boston. Tiffany is a passionate supporter of midwifery care, reproductive justice, bodily autonomy, and access to out-of- hospital birth options, particularly for Black and underserved communities. She co-authored the award-winning book ‘Preparation for a Hospital Birth’, providing invaluable insights into hospital birthing experiences. Tiffany is the Vice President of the Bay State Birth Coalition’s board and founded the Nurses for Black Maternal Health and Equity Organization to diversify the perinatal workforce. She actively contributes to the birth center community as a steering committee member for Mind the Gap and Birth Equity & Justice Massachusetts. Tiffany also serves as Co-Chair of the Harvard Catalyst Community Coalition for Equity in Research and as Chair of the Massachusetts DPH Public Health Data Warehouse Community Advisory Board, where she provides expert input on proposals and protocols. Tiffany completed the Young American Leaders Program at Harvard Business School and is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society for Leadership. Her book received the 2024 National Black Nurses Association award for exceptional literary work promoting maternal health equity. She has been recognized with the 2022 Image of the Professional Nurse award by the Massachusetts Nursing Association and was named one of the 2022 Ten Outstanding Young Leaders by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.
