Epidemiologist at the CDC, Atlanta
The Davis Academy Class of 2005
Franklin & Marshall College Class of 2013
Imperial College London Class of 2015
UNC Charlotte PhD Program Class of 2018

I learned early on at Davis about values like Tikkun Olam and Tzedakah, and I think that whether you are Jewish or not, everyone should make an effort to take care of the world and improve the lives of those less fortunate. I’ve dedicated my career to these values, whose seeds were planted in my mind as a student at Davis.

“After high school, I went on to study Biology and Environmental Science at Franklin & Marshall College followed by earning my Masters in Wildlife Conservation Science at the Imperial College of London. It was during my PhD program that I developed an interest in global health. As an epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in addition to my work on strengthening polio vaccine systems in Africa and the Middle East, I have been involved in a variety of operations across the spectrum of the CDC’s COVID-19 response. My team and I have worked to identify minority communities that have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and helped recognize areas of the country where services like testing and vaccine distribution could be more effectively provided to these vulnerable populations. It feels good to play a small role in the distribution of vital services to the people who most need them. The most inspirational part of the last year been the development of the COVID-19 vaccines. To create, test, and manufacture such a crucial product within a single year is absolutely remarkable and speaks to the incredible capability of humanity to do great things when they are needed most. I’m so inspired by everyone involved in the process, from the lab scientists to the warehouse employees, and I am thankful every day for their work.”