The College of Public Health Graduate Student Association at the University of Iowa was established to expand opportunities in professional development and outreach, discuss student issues, and create a greater sense of community for all students in the College of Public Health.
Aims and Functions
- Develop a sense of community among all graduate students in the College of Public Health
- Coordinate communication among student organizations in the College of Public Health
- Expand opportunities for student professional development
- Facilitate student dialogue with local, state, and national organizations
Membership
Membership is open to all students enrolled in a CPH graduate degree program. Contact an officer for more information. Meetings are held twice a month, and meeting minutes are available.
CPHGSA Board (2019-2020)
President: Elliot Burghardt
Elliot Burghardt is in his fifth year in the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) as an MD/PhD student in Biostatistics. He has a BS in bio-engineering from Clemson University. He hopes to promote the congenial atmosphere of UI and the College of Public Health, helping CPH students connect with other graduate and professional students. He aims to serve as an advocate for CPH students and their well-being.
Vice President: Hailey Boudreau
Hailey Boudreau is an MPH student in the Community and Behavioral Health department and MS in Urban and Regional Planning student. She received her undergraduate degree from Iowa State University in Dietetics in 2013 and is a practicing registered dietitian. She is a member of the College of Public Health Graduate Student Association, University of Iowa Graduate and Professional Student Government, Urban Planning Student Association and College of Public Health Ambassadors. Hailey also volunteers as a dietitian for Camp Hertko Hollow, a camp for kids and teens with diabetes, and is a co-producer and host for the From the Front Row Podcast. Her interest areas include food, nutrition, healthier communities, and food systems.
Vice President: Juan Gudino
Juan Gudino is a second year MPH student in Epidemiology. He is originally from Mason City, Iowa—attending the University of Iowa for his undergraduate career where he obtained his BA in psychology. His current research focuses on the health effects of immigration enforcement and immigration bond, where he is working on a national report on recommendations for cash-bail reform in the U.S. incarceration system. As a member of CPHGSA, Juan hopes to promote interdepartmental activities among faculty, students, and staff.
Vice President: Michael Niles
Michael Niles is a second year MPH student in Occupational and Environmental Health. He has a BA in interdepartmental studies—health science with a global health emphasis from the University of Iowa. His current research and work interests include occupational injuries, sports injuries, and chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Treasurer: Monica Ahrens
Monica Ahrens is a fourth year Biostatistics PhD Student. She has a BS in mathematics from the University of Iowa. She is currently working on applied research in various areas, including car and bike crash studies. This is Monica’s second year as a member or CPHGSA, and she is looking forward to serving the student body again.
Communications/Web master: Chelsea Keenan
Chelsea Keenan is a second year MPH student in Health Management and Policy. She is originally from Tampa, Florida, and has a BS in journalism from the University of Florida. Before coming back to school, she worked as a reporter at the Cedar Rapids Gazette, where she covered the state’s transition to Medicaid managed care, the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in Iowa, and other health care issues.
CPHGSA Representatives (2019-2020)
At-large: Elliot Burghardt
Biostatistics: Monica Ahrens
Community and Behavioral Health: Hailey Boudreau
Epidemiology: Juan Gudino
Health Management and Policy: Chelsea Keenan
Occupational and Environmental Health: Michael Niles