Alumni,Nutritional Sciences Results

Abas Shkembi

Working in the heat is deadlier than we thought

Abas Shkembi, MS ’23

Michigan Public Health researcher Abas Shkembi, a PhD student in Environmental Health Sciences, has found that occupational heat deaths may be hundreds of times higher than official records show—between 3,000 and 17,000 annually versus the reported 30 to 60. His research also reveals that low-income workers, minorities and immigrants bear the greatest burden.

Takreed Ali

Bridging cultures, communities and nutrition one rotation at a time

Takreed Ali, MPH ’26

University of Michigan School of Public Health’s Takreed Ali, a member of the Class of 2026 who is graduating with a Master of Public Health in Nutritional Sciences, blends dietetics training, bilingual community service and research connecting Quranic nutrition references with modern science. A single mother and CEW+ scholar, she’s preparing to tackle health disparities through culturally responsive nutrition and food access.

Liying Chen, wearing glasses and a green parka, with a waterfall in the background at Yosemite National Park

Finding clarity in numbers and community

Liying Chen, MS ’20, PhD ’26

Michigan Public Health Biostatistics PhD student Liying Chen transforms clinical medicine experience into impactful public health research. Chen harnesses statistics, AI, and big data for cancer, mental health, and substance use, supported by a diverse community and renowned mentorship.

Darla Bishop smiling with a blue top in an office setting

Applying public health principles to financial education

Darla Bishop, MPH ’09

Michigan Public Health alumna Darla Bishop transformed her Master of Public Health degree into a unique career bridging healthcare and financial wellness. From working on Capitol Hill to founding a financial education company, Bishop shows how Health Behavior and Health Education training provides versatile skills that adapt across industries and military relocations.

Gloria Charles Mazinga

Championing accessible care for chronic diseases

Gloria Charles Mazinga

Gloria Charles Mazinga, a clinical nutrition master’s student at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, is recognized for pioneering accessible healthcare solutions for chronic disease in resource-limited settings. Her global experience, leadership and community service impact nutrition protocols, pediatric cancer care, and scholarship support. She was named an Irma M. Wyman Scholar by CEW+ for visionary public health leadership.

Hannah Rice

Expanding horizons: Finding career success in unexpected public health role

Hannah Rice, MPH ’25

Hannah Rice, MPH '25, navigated a challenging job market to find meaningful work addressing health disparities in managed care. Her University of Michigan School of Public Health education in Health Behavior and Health Education, combined with coursework in implementation science and health insurance, prepared her for unexpected career opportunities in St. Louis.