What do you love most about working in STD prevention?

What I love most about working in STD Prevention is the opportunity to work with some of the most passionate and selfless people in public health. STD prevention is hard work and our state (Louisiana) consistently reports some of the highest STD rates in the nation. However, I work alongside people who are not working for fame or money, but truly to make a difference in the lives of the citizens we serve.  Regardless of state rankings and morbidity reports, the dedication and effort of our team is remarkable!

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing our field?

Funding cuts, an aging public health workforce, and the emergence of antibiotic-resistant infections pose credible threats to STD prevention efforts. These challenges, along with reported STD rates at an all-time high nationwide, create a myriad of barriers to effective STD prevention. As a field, however, we are facing these challenges with creativity and partnership. We have learned new ways to make the most of every STD funding dollar spent and stepped outside the box to forge partnerships with traditional and non-traditional partners to optimize limited resources.

When you’re not working, what’s your favorite thing to do with your free time?

I love to read and travel! I enjoy exploring new places, embracing new cultures, meeting new people and, of course, trying local cuisine. One of my favorite travel destinations is New York City. I love that New York has so much to see and do that I don’t ever have to do the same thing twice (and if I did, it would still be fun and exciting!). I love catching a play, trying new restaurants, shopping, or just sightseeing. I enjoy it all!