Nine students in the Global Health Institute Scholars program worked on international public health projects and research during the summer of 2024 to help communities and expand their knowledge and skills.
Photo above: Anna Yunuen Soto Fernández, PhD student, with colleagues from the Universidad del Valle de Guatemala.
Nine exceptional students from the University of Arizona embarked on transformative research experiences in countries around the world during the summer of 2024 as part of the Global Health Institute (GHI) Scholars program. From investigating water contamination in Guatemala to exploring the effects of climate change on waterborne diseases in Tanzania, these GHI scholars tackled pressing global health challenges in collaboration with international partners.
Through the GHI Scholars program at the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health (MEZCOPH), students receive funding to conduct public health research abroad, an invaluable experience that expands their academic and professional horizons. This immersive program fosters cross-cultural understanding and prepares students to become leaders in global health. We are proud to highlight the impactful work of our 2024 GHI Scholars!
Strengthening Research Capacity in Guatemala
Anna Yunuen Soto Fernández, a PhD student in Environmental Health Sciences, partnered with the Universidad del Valle de Guatemala (UVG) to investigate exposure to toxic metals and microbial pathogens through drinking water in the watershed of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. Her research aims to build technical capacity and improve environmental quality in the country.
Promoting Healthy Aging in Egypt
Azmat Sidhu, a PhD student in Epidemiology, conducted research at the American University in Cairo (AUC), studying cognitive health and aging through the AL-SEHA project. This longitudinal study explores healthy cognitive aging patterns in Egyptian populations and provides a comparative perspective on global aging research.
Addressing Healthcare Disparities in Australia
Cutberto Hernandez, an MPH student in Global Health, collaborated with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) to explore stroke survivorship and self-care. His work focuses on understanding and addressing healthcare disparities, particularly in underserved populations.
Advancing Health Promotion in Mexico City
Erika Gonzvar, an MPH student in Global Health, joined the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico - Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza (UNAM FES Zaragoza) to work on health promotion and education initiatives. Erika’s research emphasizes maternal and child health, mental health, and border health.
Investigating Metal Accumulation in Ecuador
Karla Ajoy Rendón, an MS student in Environmental Health Sciences, partnered with Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) in Ecuador to study metal accumulation in aquatic organisms and its implications for human health. Her work aims to inform public health interventions in underserved communities.
Exploring Multimorbidity in Ireland
Katie Herder, a PhD student in Biostatistics, collaborated with the University of Limerick on the INSIGHT-GP project, examining multimorbidity and service usage in gerontological health. Her research builds on her background in public health and biostatistics to address health challenges in older populations.
Investigating One Health Issues in Mexico
Priscilla Valenzuela, a PhD student in Environmental Health Sciences, worked with the Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas to study pesticides, heavy metals, and pathogens in human, animal, and aquatic environments in Tamaulipas. Her research focuses on how human health is deeply interconnected with ecosystem health.
Supporting Migrant Health in Mexico
Sabrina Castillo (Saby), an MPH student in Maternal and Child Health, joined the Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública (INSP) to develop a comprehensive health curriculum for migrants in Tapachula, Chiapas. Her work builds on her experience supporting refugee minors in the United States.
Tackling Climate Change and Waterborne Diseases in Tanzania
Victor Okpanachi, an MS student in Environmental Health Sciences, partnered with the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) to investigate how climate change impacts the bacterium Vibrio cholerae (the cause of cholera) and water quality. His research aims to develop adaptation and mitigation strategies to address waterborne diseases.
A Collective Commitment to Global Health
These nine GHI Scholars exemplify the dedication, resilience, and curiosity required to tackle global health challenges. Their contributions not only advance public health knowledge but also create meaningful change in the communities they serve.
The Global Health Institute Scholars program would not be possible without the invaluable support of our international collaborators and funding partners. We are deeply grateful to Universidad del Valle de Guatemala (UVG), The American University in Cairo (AUC), University of Technology Sydney (UTS), UNAM Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza (UNAM - FES Zaragoza), Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), University of Limerick (UL), Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas (UAT), Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública (INSP), and Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS).
Additionally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our funding partners, including the Kent Campbell Scholarship Fund, One Health Fund, the University of Arizona’s Resilience Internships and Student Experiences (RISE), and the Zuckerman Family Fund, for making these transformative research experiences possible.
Special recognition goes to Gabriela Valdez, Director of Education for GHI, and Roxanna Apaez, Senior Manager, for their dedication and hard work in building partnerships and guiding our scholars. Their efforts ensure that the GHI Scholars program continues to provide life-changing opportunities for students and meaningful contributions to global health.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of the 2024 GHI Scholars, we remain committed to fostering a new generation of global health leaders. Applications for the Summer 2025 GHI Scholars program open December 15th. Visit GHI Scholars to learn more about our program and the inspiring work of our students.
"I am immensely proud of our 2024 Global Health Institute Scholars, says Dr. Iman Hakim, Dean of the Zuckerman College of Public Health, “Their dedication to advancing public health through research with our global partners exemplifies the core values of our institution. These experiences not only contribute to the health and well-being of communities worldwide but also enrich our students' academic and professional growth, preparing them to become the next generation of global health leaders."
