Our Research
Summer 2025 THRIVE MPH Fellows, a cohort of graduate students in the Master of Public Health program who are conducting innovative, equity-centered research across Georgia and the Deep South. Under the mentorship of Dr. Hamidah Sharif-Amanyi, Associate Professor of Public Health and THRIVE MPH Project Director, the fellows are addressing critical issues facing underserved communities, including food insecurity, chronic disease, mental health, and disparities in healthcare access.
“Each of these students is deeply engaged in timely and applied public health scholarship. They are not only identifying challenges in the communities we serve—they are helping to develop real-world, community-informed solutions,” said, Dr. Sharif-Amanyi.
Through the THRIVE MPH Fellows Initiative, students receive structured mentorship, hands-on research training, and opportunities to translate their findings into public health practice. The program emphasizes leadership, service, and a strong commitment to health equity through community-based engagement.
These future public health leaders are preparing to make a meaningful impact through data-driven research and culturally responsive intervention models. Their contributions reflect FVSU’s continued commitment to developing scholars who serve and uplift historically underserved communities.
Latasha Felder
Research Title: Food Insecurity and Sleep Quality in Adults Living With Type 2 Diabetes in Southwest Georgia
Latasha explores how inadequate access to nutritious food disrupts sleep and worsens diabetes outcomes in rural populations. Her work uses mixed methods to inform chronic disease prevention strategies and support for vulnerable adults in Georgia.
Orianna Watters
Research Title: Poultry Farming Practices and Broiler Health Management Among Growers in Lee County, Alabama
Orianna’s research focuses on poultry farming practices and broiler health management among small-scale growers in Lee County, Alabama. Her study measures the prevalence of avian disease reported by flock owners and the preventive practices they use to treat and manage them. By identifying trends in disease control and flock care, her research supports more informed outreach and training for farmers in poultry production.
Deidre Robinson
Research Title: The Impact of Food Insecurity on Perceived Stress Among HIV-Positive Women in Macon-Bibb County, Georgia
Deidre explores how hunger amplifies stress in women living with HIV. Her research brings attention to the intersection of food justice and HIV care, offering critical insights for wraparound services and public health interventions.
Ashley Davis
Research Title: Observing Fruit and Vegetable Purchasing Patterns Among SNAP Participants in Houston County, Georgia
Ashley is conducting a real-world observational study in grocery stores to understand how SNAP recipients purchase fruits and vegetables. Her work will inform local and state programs designed to increase fresh food access in rural Georgia.
Amber Lynch
Research Title: School Lunch Satisfaction and Vegetable Consumption Among Middle School Students in Macon-Bibb County, Georgia
Amber investigates how school lunch satisfaction influences students’ willingness to consume vegetables. As a School Nutrition Program Training Coordinator, she brings firsthand experience to her work promoting child nutrition and community wellness.
Faith Smith
Research Title: Food Literacy and Meal Diversity Among Male Caregivers of Elderly Adults in Fort Valley, Georgia
Faith’s research explores the role of male caregivers in planning meals for aging relatives. With experience in food safety and biomedical research, she is interested in how public health education can improve elder nutrition and household well-being.
Brittney Evans
Research Title: Understanding HIV Testing Barriers and Beliefs Among Black Men in Atlanta: A Health Belief Model Approach
Brittney’s research applies the Health Belief Model to understand why many Black men delay or avoid HIV testing. Her study aims to uncover personal beliefs, perceived risks, and systemic barriers that limit access to early testing and diagnosis. Her work will inform culturally responsive health education and outreach initiatives tailored to urban Black male populations.
Each of these MPH Fellows exemplifies the mission of the THRIVE MPH Fellows Project at FVSU—to cultivate health equity leaders who are committed to service, driven by data, and grounded in community. Through interdisciplinary research and applied learning, they are transforming the future of public health, one project at a time.