Global Health Institute Scholars: Advancing Health Across the Globe in 2025
Nine students in the Global Health Institute Scholars program explored international public health research and practice experiences during the summer of 2025, working with global partners to address critical health challenges across multiple regions of the world.
Nine students from the University of Arizona expanded their public health training through immersive global experiences as part of the 2025 Global Health Institute (GHI) Scholars program. Representing undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs at the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health (MEZCOPH), the scholars worked alongside international collaborators in Africa, Latin America, Australia, the Middle East, and island communities in Ecuador.
From HIV prevention and healthy aging to climate change, nutrition, environmental health, and systems leadership, the 2025 cohort addressed complex global health issues through research, community engagement, and applied public health practice. The GHI Scholars program provides funding and mentorship that allows students to gain hands-on international experience while strengthening global partnerships and advancing health equity.
Please explore all the places and projects that expanded the knowledge and experience of our GHI scholars!
Advancing HIV Prevention and Community Health in Australia
Joseph Agosttini, MPH student in Health Behavior & Health Promotion, partnered with the University of Technology Sydney to study HIV prevention strategies among gay and bisexual men in Sydney and Berlin. His project examined PrEP use and community dynamics across cultural contexts, with the goal of translating global insights into local public health practice in Arizona.
Promoting Healthy Aging in Egypt
Jumah Alkhaibari, PhD student in Environmental Health Sciences, collaborated with the American University in Cairo on the AL-SEHA study, a longitudinal project examining healthy aging among Egyptian populations. His work contributes to global aging research by exploring how environmental, social, and cultural factors shape health outcomes over time.
Addressing Climate Change and Water Quality in Guatemala
Kendra Martinez, MPH student in Climate Change and Health, partnered with the Universidad del Valle de Guatemala to examine water quality in the Lake Atitlán region. Her research explored links between climate change, environmental conditions, and community health, with a strong focus on local engagement and sustainable public health solutions.
Advancing Health Promotion in Mexico City
Danitza M. Molina, MPH student in Global Health, collaborated with Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) on public health and health promotion initiatives. Her work focused on culturally responsive approaches to health equity in urban communities.
Expanding Global Partnership with North-West University, South Africa
The summer of 2025 marked the introductory year of a new collaboration between the University of Arizona and North-West University (NWU) in South Africa, resulting in exceptional learning and research experiences for four GHI Scholars.
Anahy Fernandez, an Accelerated BS & MPH student in Global Health, worked with NWU to evaluate a community-specific, peer-to-peer nutrition education program focused on infant and young child food safety and security. Her work emphasized culturally responsive education and community engagement in rural settings.
Mario Morales, PhD student in Health Behavior and Health Promotion, contributed to the Youth360 Project, addressing youth empowerment through poverty alleviation, education access, and health promotion.
Juliana Panhorst, the only undergraduate selected as a 2025 GHI Scholar, completed a community nutrition practice internship in Dietetics. Her selection reflects outstanding academic achievement and a strong commitment to community-led global health initiatives.
Cheryl Valdez, MPH student in Global Health, participated through a partnership with NWU’s Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research, focusing on systems leadership development. Her work supported leadership capacity-building within South Africa’s public health system and contributed to strengthening institutional networks.
Together, these experiences established a strong foundation for an ongoing partnership between the University of Arizona and North-West University.
Investigating Environmental Health Risks in Ecuador
Juliana Salazar, MS student in Environmental Health Sciences, partnered with Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) to evaluate health risks associated with toxic metals in seafood species from the Galápagos Islands and Guayaquil. Her research supports environmental protection efforts and public health interventions in ecologically sensitive regions.
A Collective Commitment to Global Health
The 2025 GHI Scholars exemplify the curiosity, collaboration, and commitment needed to address global public health challenges. Their work advances scientific knowledge, strengthens international partnerships, and supports community-driven solutions worldwide.
The Global Health Institute Scholars program is made possible through the support of international partners, including University of Technology Sydney, American University in Cairo, North-West University, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, UNAM FES Zaragoza, and Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL).
Funding support was provided by the University of Arizona’s Resilience Internships and Student Experiences (RISE) program and the Kent Campbell Scholarship Fund.
Special recognition goes to Gabriela Valdez, Director of Education for the Global Health Institute, and Roxanna Apaez, Senior Manager, for their leadership in building partnerships and supporting student success.
“As we celebrate the accomplishments of our 2025 GHI Scholars, we are reminded of the importance of global collaboration and experiential learning,” said Dr. Iman Hakim, Dean of the Zuckerman College of Public Health. “These experiences prepare our students to become thoughtful, skilled leaders committed to advancing public health worldwide.”
Looking Ahead
As we recognize the achievements of the 2025 GHI Scholars, we look ahead to supporting future cohorts of global health leaders. Applications for Summer 2026 opportunities now open!
Visit GHI Scholars to learn more about the program and upcoming opportunities.
Support Future GHI Scholars
To help sustain this program and support future participants, we welcome tax-deductible gifts through the University of Arizona Foundation. To designate your gift, simply enter “GHI Scholars” in the designation field. Your support ensures this transformative experience remains accessible to students from all backgrounds.