University of Arizona Leads Evaluation of Arizona’s Pilot Trauma Recovery Centers in Landmark Public Health Initiative
Public health researchers from the Zuckerman College of Public Health at the University of Arizona will lead a comprehensive evaluation of the Arizona Trauma Recovery Centers program for the Arizona Department of Health Services.
June 2025 – Tucson, AZ — A partnership between the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) and the University of Arizona’s Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health is set to transform the way trauma recovery services are implemented and evaluated across the state. Under an InterAgency Service Agreement (#CTR072735), a research team led by Dr. John Ehiri will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of Arizona’s first-ever Trauma Recovery Centers (TRCs).
Dr. Ehiri, a professor and Vice Dean for Academic & Faculty Affairs, is joined by an accomplished multidisciplinary team: Dr. Yevheniia Varyvoda, Dr. Sheila Soto, Dr. God’sGift Chukwuonye, and PhD student Raymond Yurika. Together, they will assess the effectiveness of two pilot TRC sites, Chicanos Por La Causa and CODAC, selected under a competitive solicitation aimed at supporting underserved survivors of violent crime.
The TRC model, originally developed by the University of California, San Francisco, offers a survivor-centered, evidence-based approach that combines mental health care, legal support, and social services. The Arizona initiative reflects a commitment to trauma-informed, culturally competent care, with a special focus on addressing healthcare disparities and promoting social justice.
“Our team is honored to support this important initiative that places healing, access, and data-driven practice at the center of community health,” said Dr. Ehiri. “This project marks a significant step toward institutionalizing trauma recovery in Arizona’s public health infrastructure. We aim to ensure that the TRC model not only works but works for all Arizonans.”
Teresa Aseret-Manygoats, Bureau Chief, Chronic Disease & Health Promotion at the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), emphasized the significance of this effort: “This partnership reflects our commitment to building a more resilient and equitable public health system. By advancing trauma recovery with mental health and support services tailored to individual needs, we provide survivors with the care they need to heal and thrive. Trauma doesn’t end when the crisis passes; these centers will offer a path to long-term healing.” She added, “Through this evaluation, we are laying the groundwork for expanding a model of care that is compassionate, evidence-based, and responsive to the needs of victims and their families.”