Dr. Mary M. K. Foote honored at the University of Arizona’s 2025 Alumni of the Year event

Mary M. K. Foote MD '07, MPH '07, the 2024-2025 Alumna of the Year for the Zuckerman College of Public Health, was honored at the University of Arizona’s ceremony for all the Alumni of the Year from the colleges and schools across campus, and she gave a passionate acceptance speech.

Dr. Mary Foote’s visit to Tucson this February was a moment of recognition, reflection, and inspiration. The renowned medical professional and public health leader was honored with the prestigious 2024-2025 Zuckerman College of Public Health Alumni of the Year Award at the University of Arizona's annual awards ceremony. Dr. Foote, the Medical Director for the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Response at the New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene, was welcomed to the university with enthusiasm, not only for the award but for the insights she would share during her visit. She earned her combined MD/MPH degree from the University of Arizona in 2007.

At the heart of her trip was the ceremony in which she was honored by the university that helped shape her career. The award ceremony for all the University of Arizona Alumni of the Year award winners from across campus took place on February 27, 2025. As she accepted her award, Dr. Foote spoke passionately about the dual MD/MPH degree program and the value it holds, particularly the Master of Public Health (MPH) degree.

"It’s an honor to be recognized today and especially to shine a light on the dual program's impact," said Dr. Foote, "It is such a significant contribution to the field of public health, and I hope we can continue to emphasize its value for future generations."

Dr. Foote’s heartfelt speech was a tribute not only to her journey but also to the people and places that influenced it. "I must first thank my parents, the college, and my mentors, Dr. Lane Johnson and Dr. Ronald Pust, who unfortunately could not be here today," she began, acknowledging those who had helped her along the way. "I’m also incredibly grateful for the public health colleagues I’ve had the honor of working with over the years. You inspire and educate me daily."

Reflecting on her career, Dr. Foote likened it to the concept of nature versus nurture. “Since I was a little girl, my bedtime stories were about infectious diseases. That was the nature part,” she said with a smile, “but the nurture part became grand when I came to school here in Southern Arizona. It truly transformed the foundation of my career and my view of the world.”

She spoke about the unique public health challenges faced in the Borderlands and Southwest Arizona. “In this region, we have such diverse communities with rich histories, but we also face deep-rooted health disparities, environmental issues, and social determinants of health,” Dr. Foote explained. “I learned that public health isn’t just about individual patient care; it’s about working with entire communities, understanding their needs, and building a framework for care that’s inclusive and impactful.”

Dr. Foote’s passion for community-centered care was evident as she discussed the pressing issues facing public health today: chronic underinvestment, climate change, emerging diseases, and mistrust.

One of the most striking moments of her speech was when she referred to the often-invisible nature of public health work. “Public health professionals are like an invisible shield," she explained. "If we’re doing our job right, nobody knows we’re here. Sometimes, this invisibility works against us. But we need to fight for science-based policies and stronger public health systems."

With a hopeful message, Dr. Foote concluded her address with a call to action: "This is a team sport. We can’t do this alone. Let’s work together, advocate for better public health funding, and continue to build a system that can withstand the challenges ahead. Hopefully, together, we can make this world a better place."

Her words resonated deeply with the alumni, faculty, and community supporters in attendance. Dr. Foote’s visit was not just a moment of celebration, it was an invitation for all to join in a shared mission to advance public health for the future.