Taylor Alexander, M.P.H., currently serves as the surveillance program coordinator of the STI (sexually transmitted infections) and HIV program within the Metro Public Health Department of Nashville (TN) and Davidson County. Before earning her master of public health in epidemiology at Kent State University, as well as obtaining a graduate certificate in healthcare compliance, Alexander achieved her bachelor of science at Western Kentucky University.
Tell us what a typical day looks like in your current role:
My day typically involves analyzing and interpreting data related to STIs and HIV. I collaborate closely with public health teams to ensure data accuracy, manage reporting systems, and track trends to identify potential outbreaks. A large part of my day is spent coordinating surveillance efforts, communicating with our partners, and providing recommendations based on the data we collect. I also work on developing and implementing strategies to improve the public health response and ensure that the community has access to the necessary resources for prevention and treatment.
Tell us your favorite story about how your public health career impacted an individual or a community:
One of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in my public health career was working on a community outreach initiative aimed at increasing HIV testing and education in underserved neighborhoods. Through our efforts, we were able to connect individuals who had previously been unaware of their health status with vital care and resources. One case involved a young person who had avoided getting tested for years due to fear and stigma. After attending one of our outreach events, they not only got tested but also became an advocate for others in their community. Knowing that our work led to someone’s improved health and helped break down barriers for others was incredibly fulfilling.
What would you say to a high school student considering public health for their degree program?
I would encourage a high school student considering public health to pursue it if they have a passion for helping others and want to make a meaningful difference in communities. Public health is a field that combines science, policy, and social justice, and there are endless opportunities to create positive change. It’s also a dynamic and evolving field that will challenge you and provide opportunities for continuous learning. If you care about making the world a healthier place, public health offers a pathway to do just that.
How do you see AI positively impacting public health?
AI has the potential to revolutionize public health by improving the efficiency of data collection, analysis, and decision-making. For example, AI can help predict disease outbreaks by analyzing patterns in data that would be difficult for humans to process on their own. Additionally, AI can assist with personalized healthcare by analyzing individual health data to create tailored intervention strategies. It can also streamline administrative tasks, allowing public health professionals to focus on more impactful work. While there are challenges to implementing AI, particularly regarding data privacy, the potential benefits for public health are immense.
How do you feel the College of Public Health prepared you for your career?
The College of Public Health provided me with both the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to succeed in my career. The program’s strong emphasis on epidemiology, data analysis, and community health gave me the tools to understand and address public health challenges from a scientific perspective. Additionally, the faculty and applied practice experience helped me build critical thinking and problem-solving skills that have been invaluable in my current role. I also appreciated the emphasis on real-world applications, which allowed me to hit the ground running as soon as I started my career.
What motivated you to obtain your M.P.H.?
I pursued my M.P.H. to enhance my career development and expand my opportunities within public health management. I recognized that obtaining an M.P.H. would equip me with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to tackle complex health issues and open doors to leadership roles. I was eager to gain the expertise necessary to make a broader impact and contribute more effectively to public health initiatives.
How do you feel your M.P.H. has impacted your career trajectory?
My M.P.H. has significantly impacted my career trajectory by accelerating my growth within the public health field. Just three months after graduation, I was promoted to program coordinator, a role that has provided me with the opportunity to lead projects, manage teams, and directly influence public health initiatives. The advanced skills I gained through the program have not only helped me perform at a higher level but have also opened multiple avenues for further professional growth within my department.
Did you earn any additional certificates? If so, what certificates?
I earned a graduate certificate in healthcare compliance. This program helped me gain deeper insights into healthcare regulations and compliance, which I believe will further enhance my ability to contribute effectively to public health initiatives.
Was there someone in the college that had an impact on you?
My advisor, Lynette Phillips, Ph.D., had a significant impact on my educational journey. She was always incredibly responsive and supportive, providing guidance on course selection and academic decisions. When my aunt passed away the week my comprehensive exam was due, I was understandably concerned about the possibility of needing to retake it. Lynette was reassuring and empathetic, offering me the peace of mind that I would have the opportunity to retake the exam if necessary. Thankfully, I didn’t need to, but her approach always made me feel comfortable reaching out, no matter the question or circumstance. Her support was invaluable during a challenging time for me.
Is there a particular faculty or staff member at CPH that helped you through your educational journey?
Yes, Steven Paciorek, Ph.D., was instrumental in supporting me throughout my educational journey in the CPH. He played a crucial role in ensuring my Applied Practice Experience went smoothly. Steve was always available for calls to guide me through the planning process and offer advice whenever I had questions. His approachable nature and willingness to provide guidance made a significant difference, and his support was invaluable in making my experience as seamless and productive as possible.
What are your professional goals?
My professional goals include continuing to grow within public health management and expanding my expertise in healthcare compliance. In the near future, I aim to use my graduate certificate in healthcare compliance to take on leadership roles that bridge public health initiatives with regulatory practices. I also hope to contribute to the development of policies that promote health equity and improve access to healthcare services. Ultimately, I want to help shape public health strategies that have a lasting, positive impact on communities.
Is there any additional information you would like to share?
I’m currently focused on expanding my expertise in healthcare compliance because I believe this will allow me to play a larger role in ensuring that public health programs are not only effective but also compliant with regulations, ultimately improving patient outcomes and safeguarding public health. I’m excited to see where this will take me in the future and am always eager to connect with others in the field to exchange ideas and collaborate.