Student Organizations

Overview:

The Hudson College of Public Health Student Association (HCOPHSA) represents every student enrolled in a public health program at OUHSC. Elected HCOPHSA officers appear on behalf of public health students to the Graduate Student Association, Student Government Association, and the College of Public Health Executive Committee. HCOPHSA organizes social events, professional development, biannual student feedback sessions, and other opportunities that benefit and develop the public health student body. 

Regular HCOPHSA meetings are on the second Wednesday of the month from 12pm-1pm. 

We would love to hear your comments, suggestions, or questions at cophsa-officers@ouhsc.edu. 

President – Emily N. Kinyanjui – Health Administration and Policy, MHA

I am a second-year Master of Health Administration and Policy (MHA) student at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. I hold a bachelor's degree in accounting from Southern Adventist University in Tennessee and an MBA in Finance and Strategic Management from Daystar University in Nairobi. Prior to beginning my graduate studies, I worked with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), leading strategic financial initiatives across several international humanitarian programs—an experience that honed my skills in financial management and cross-cultural teamwork. 
As a Graduate Research Assistant, I support faculty-led projects aimed at strengthening health systems and organizational performance. This has deepened my interest in applied health services research and strengthened my analytical and problem-solving abilities. My research interests include health systems improvement, healthcare policy, and the use of data-driven strategies to enhance operational efficiency and patient outcomes. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading, cooking, traveling, and volunteering in church-led outreach programs that serve vulnerable populations. These activities keep me grounded and inspired to contribute to community well-being.

Vice President – Dorsa Hosseininasab – PhD Student, Health Promotion Sciences

Dorsa Hosseininasab is a PhD student in Health Promotion Sciences at the Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She holds a master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences and has experience in clinical nutrition. At OUHSC, she serves as a Graduate Research Assistant and is actively involved in research projects focused on diet, obesity, and chronic disease prevention  

Dorsa has presented her research at national conferences including ASN and Obesity Week and enjoys mentoring students and participating in academic leadership. In her free time, she loves going to the gym, exploring new places, cooking, playing piano, and spending time with loved ones. As Vice President, she is dedicated to helping create a supportive and engaging environment for public health students. 

Secretary – Navya Jeldi – PhD Student, Health Promotion Sciences

Navya Jeldi, MPH, is a PhD student in Health Promotion Science at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She holds a degree in Dental Surgery from India and a master’s in public health from Oklahoma State University. With two years of clinical experience, she has a strong foundation in both clinical care and public health. 
Her research interests include health disparities, chronic health conditions, mental health, and children's and women's health. Currently, she is a Graduate Research Assistant working on diabetes and mental health projects. When she's not working, you'll find her reading, drawing, and illustrating children's storybooks. As Secretary, she works to ensure smooth communication, efficient coordination, and active student engagement

Treasurer – Jon’E Mae Fulton – Epidemiology, MPH

Jon’e Mae is a second-year student in the MPH in Epidemiology program, having received a Bachelor’s of Public Health from OU. Jon’e Mae is interested in infectious disease epidemiology, especially disease outbreak investigation. She has previously worked as an intern at IMMY in Norman, OK, which gave her great knowledge of infectious diseases and experience with the data analytical side of global outbreak investigation. She is currently a graduate research assistant here at Hudson, working with Dr. Beebe on project CHAT, combating heavy tobacco advertising outside tobacco retailer environments. In her free time, Jon’e Mae enjoys reading, game nights with friends, and traveling whenever she gets the chance.

Senator – Teniola Ibrahim – Community and Population Health, MPH

Teniola Ibrahim is a physician driven by a passion for community well-being. After earning her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from Afe Babalola University in Nigeria, she is now building on that foundation by pursuing a Master of Public Health with a focus on Community and Population Health at the Hudson College of Public Health.
As a Graduate Teaching Assistant for cell biology, Tenny enjoys guiding students and sharing her love for science. Away from her academic and professional life, she expresses her creativity through cooking and hairstyling. She also loves to travel and spend quality time with her family. Ultimately, everything she does is rooted in a desire to use her medical and public health knowledge to make a real, positive difference in people's lives.

Senator – Andrew Long – MPH Student, Epidemiology

Andrew Long is a Master of Public Health candidate in Epidemiology at the University of Oklahoma. He began his professional journey by enlisting in the United States Air Force as an Ophthalmic Technician, where he gained extensive experience in clinical, surgical, and administrative settings. During his service, he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for meritorious achievement and dedication.
Following his military service, Andrew returned to Oklahoma and worked at a local clinic while completing his Bachelor of Science in Family Studies and Gerontology at Southern Nazarene University. Now transitioning into the field of public health, he is eager to leverage his background in biostatistics, epidemiology, clinical care, and public service to advance data-driven solutions that improve health outcomes across Oklahoma, with a particular focus on supporting veterans, enhancing state health metrics, and strengthening national service initiatives

Community Service Chair – Sarah C. Odiachi –Epidemiology, MPH

Sarah C. Odiachi is a first-year MPH student in Epidemiology. She holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Microbiology from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. Sarah currently serves as a Graduate Research Assistant on the Lung Screen Tribal-OK Study, working in partnership with the Cherokee Nation to improve lung cancer screening among tribal communities, and is supervised by Dr Juell Homco. She also brings experience from previous roles in public health projects, microbiology laboratory work, data analysis, and quality control in the food and beverage industry. A member of the American Society for Microbiology, Sarah is passionate about health education, outreach, and community service. In her free time, she enjoys reading novels, watching movies, sitcoms, and reality/game shows, as well as experimenting with new recipes and kitchen tools.

SOBE Liaison – Esma Sheikh – Epidemiology, MPH

Esma Sheikh is a Master of Public Health student at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, specializing in Epidemiology. She holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from Maharashtra university of Health Science in India and has extensive experience in community health outreach, including oral health camps, disaster relief, and food distribution programs. Esma currently serves as the Sovereignty, Opportunity, Belonging, and Engagement (SOBE) Liaison for the Hudson College of Public Health Student Association (HCOPHSA). Having transitioned from India to the U.S. for graduate school, she deeply values the importance of inclusion, cultural sensitivity, and community belonging—making the SOBE role a natural and meaningful fit. She is a Graduate Research Assistant working on impactful cancer data projects and preparing to contribute to a major COVID-19 data initiative. Her research interests include maternal and child health, oral health, food insecurity, health disparities, and the role of targeted advertising in tobacco use. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new restaurants and cafes, and relaxing with movies and TV series.

Interdisciplinary IPE Liaison – Zimazile Nakisani Bango – Epidemiology, MPH

I’m pursuing my Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology and work as a Teaching Assistant for the Principles in Epidemiology course. I hold a master’s in biotechnology and a bachelor’s in applied biology and Biochemistry, both from Zimbabwe and I have five years of experience as a biosafety officer.  My professional and academic journey has fueled a strong interest in data analysis particularly applying statistical tools to transform complex disease research data into actionable insights that improve population health and guide policy. I speak four languages fluently and can converse in four more. An avid traveler, I’ve explored 13 countries across three continents. In my free time I enjoy reading, sketching (badly but happily), singing (off-key but with enthusiasm), playing games and volunteering.

Social Chair – Parker Hermanski – Health Administration and Policy, MHA

Parker Hermanski is a second-year student pursuing a Master of Health Administration (MHA) at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, expected to graduate in the spring of 2026. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Business from the University of Oklahoma in 2024. He recently completed an Administrative Internship at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, part of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System (FMOLHS) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After graduation, he plans to obtain a fellowship and further his knowledge in administration by learning directly from executive leadership. Parker is known for his curiosity, enthusiasm, and strong work ethic, consistently seeking opportunities to learn from experienced leaders and contribute to meaningful projects. In his free time, he enjoys golfing and has been the biggest Oklahoma City Thunder fan since the team’s arrival to the city.

Overview:

The OU Healthcare Executives Student Association (OUHESA) is a student-led organization within the Department of Health Administration and Policy. Its mission is to cultivate leadership and professional growth for students entering the field of health administration. OUHESA hosts a variety of events, including the Executive Speaker Series, career development sessions, and mentorship programs, to offer students valuable industry insights and networking opportunities. The OUHESA also has a structured officer system to manage its operations and activities. 

Current Officers: 

President - Amaya Ngo  Amaya Ngo is a 2nd year MHA student in the Hudson College of Public Health. She graduated with her B.A. in Health & Society and Health Communication from the University of Texas at Austin in 2022. She has been a research assistant for both UT Austin and OU, ranging in topics from substance use disorders (SUDs), to Medicare expansion and community health needs. She recently completed her summer administrative internship at UT Southwestern, in Dallas, TX. In her free time she enjoys playing basketball, hanging out with friends, reading, and trying new restaurants!

Vice President- Ian Smith Ian Smith is a second year MHA student at OUHSC! A native Oklahoman, Ian did his undergrad at OU and double majored in Biology and Religious Studies. He cares strongly about improving health equity and wants to make sure that everyone has the ability to get the best education possible about their health. He recently finished an internship at the John Peter Smith Healthcare Network in Fort Worth TX, doing project management within internal medicine. Ian’s hobbies are reading, instruments, and sports, and his passion for healthcare is matched by his passion to grill.

Secretary- Ciera Patterson Ciera Patterson is a second year student in the MHA program and has undergraduate degrees in Nursing and Biology. With 5 years of experience as a nurse, Ciera is very passionate about bridging the gap between the clinical and administrative aspects within the hospital.  She is also interested in health policy and law, aiming to enhance safety for both patients and staff.  In her free time she enjoys traveling, watching football, and spending time with her dog, Daisy.

Treasurer- Kendall Breitenstein Kendall Breitenstein is a second-year student pursuing a Master of Health Administration. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Business with a minor in Public and Community Health from the University of Oklahoma in December 2023. She is currently an Executive Intern at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, where she is gaining hands-on experience in healthcare operations and strategic initiatives. Her plans include pursuing a career in strategy and business development after graduating in December 2025.

Special Events Officer- Jack Long Jack Long is a first-year student in the Master of Health Administration program. Originally from Ponca City, OK, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from Southern Nazarene University. Passionate about healthcare policy, he is committed to advancing quality care and ensuring patients receive the best possible treatment. In his free time, Jack enjoys spending time with friends, watching movies, and sports.

Public Relations Officer- Kalyn Smith Kalyn Smith is a 1st year student in the Master of Health Administration Program. She is from Tulsa, OK and received her Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Healthcare Business from the University of Oklahoma in May of 2024. She is passionate about advancing equitable and compassionate care for individuals from all backgrounds. In her free time, she is playing with her rabbit, Espresso, reading, or cheering on OU Athletics as a member of the OU Cheer Team.

Alumni Relations Officer- John Boone John Boone is a first-year student in the Master of Health Administration program. Originally from Ada Ok, he earned a bachelors degree in both Accounting and Healthcare Business from the University of Oklahoma. John is passionate about improving healthcare access particularly in rural Oklahoma. In his free time, John enjoys watching OU sports, spending time with his family and friends and playing video games.

Student Correspondent Ambassador- Anna Roberts  Anna Roberts is a first-year Master of Health Administration student at the OU Hudson College of Public Health. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Business and Marketing in May 2024. Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, she enjoys supporting OU Gymnastics and the Houston Astros, spending quality time with family and friends on game nights and attending concerts.

President - Anwar Islam

Vice President - Sebika Dulal

Sebika Dulal is a second-year Master of Public Health (MPH) student in Epidemiology at the Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She currently serves as a Graduate Research Assistant in the Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology for the PROVIDE Study, where she contributes to research assessing the impact of the Double Up Oklahoma (DUO) program on nutrition and health outcomes among individuals receiving SNAP benefits. Originally from Nepal, Sebika is passionate about advancing population health through evidence-based research and data-driven solutions. Her research interests include women’s health, chronic diseases, and the influence of lifestyle factors on disease prevention. As Vice President of ERSA, she is dedicated to fostering collaboration, professional growth, and community engagement among epidemiology students. Outside of academics, Sebika enjoys swimming, going to the gym, vegetarian cooking, and trekking.

Secretary - Pamela Okaka

Pamela Okaka, is a PhD student and Graduate Research Assistant in Epidemiology. She earned her MPH from Georgia Southern University and MBBS from the University of Benin, Nigeria. Her research interests focus on maternal and child health. ECFMG-certified, she aspires to be a public health physician–researcher, integrating clinical insight with epidemiology to advance sustainable preventive interventions. 

Passionate about advocacy and education, she has led awareness campaigns, volunteered with Teal House, coordinated Camp RAD, and remains active in student leadership. 

As ERSA secretary, she promotes collaborative learning and champions evidence-based, inclusive dialogue.

Treasurer - Nivedita Selaraj

PR/Communications Officer - Navya Jeldi

Navya Jeldi, MPH, is a PhD student in Health Promotion Science at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She holds a degree in Dental Surgery from India and a master’s in public health. With two years of clinical experience, she has a strong foundation in both clinical care and public health.

Her research interests include health disparities, chronic health conditions, mental health, and children’s and women’s health. Currently, she serves as a Graduate Research Assistant, contributing to projects on diabetes, methamphetamine use, and opioid use disorders. As the PR/Communications Officer for ERSA, she is committed to fostering clear communication and efficient coordination. Outside of her professional and academic work, she enjoys reading and doodling.

Event Coordinator - Sarah Odiachi

Sarah Odiachi is a Master of Public Health student specializing in Epidemiology at the University of Oklahoma Health Campus. She has a background in Microbiology and a growing interest in infectious disease research, surveillance, and global health equity.

As ERSA’s Event Coordinator, Sarah enjoys planning programs that bring students together to learn, connect, and build confidence in their research journeys. She’s passionate about creating spaces that inspire curiosity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving public health.

Overview:

The Biostatistics and Epidemiology Student Association is a student organization that serves its members through advocacy, professional development, and networking. The association’s purpose is to better prepare students to positively impact the health of populations. It offers various events and activities, giving students opportunities to meet new peers with shared interests. 

President - Bijay Rimal 

I am first year student pursuing my MS in Epidemiology in the Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology at HCOPH. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Nepal and an M.Phil in International Community Health from the University of Oslo. My research interests focus on infectious disease epidemiology and health inequity. I am currently working as a GRA with Dr. Katrin Kuhn on Wastewater Surveillance Project in Oklahoma. I am also passionate about teaching and will be working as a TA for Principles of Epidemiology with Dr. Garwe for Fall 2024. I enjoy hanging out with friends, travelling and hiking. I love watching movies during my free time.

Vice President- Hanxia Li 

Secretary- Shristi Upadhaya 

I am a second-year Master of Public Health (MPH) student with a concentration in Epidemiology and Biostatistics. Originally from Nepal, I completed my undergraduate studies in Public Health there. Currently, I work as a research assistant, focusing on analyzing data to understand how chronic health conditions, healthcare access, and sociodemographic factors impact COVID-19 outcomes, particularly among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations. As I progress in my master's program, I have developed a strong interest in infectious epidemiology and zoonotic diseases, and I aspire to make significant contributions to these fields. In my free time, I enjoy trekking and hiking, cooking new cuisines, and propagating plants.

Treasurer- Toby Clampitt 

Toby is a second-year student in the MPH in Epidemiology program, having received a dual degree in Biology and Public Health from SWOSU. Toby has a particular interest in infectious diseases, spanning from the microbiology and pathophysiology of pathogens to the disease ecology and transmission dynamics in populations. He has previous experience working in EMS, which exposed him to the realities of health inequities. Currently, he works as a Graduate Research Assistant for Dr. Terrell, focusing on the Oklahoma TTP Registry. In his free time, Toby enjoys reading, hiking, and fishkeeping.

Overview:

The Graduate Student Association membership includes all students pursuing post baccalaureate degrees in the Graduate College at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. The organization's mission is to improve student academic conditions and create an organization of the local, regional, and national graduate student community.