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 - Michael Tirado - Community and Population Health, MPH 

I am currently pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) in Community and Population Health in the Department of Health Promotion Sciences, aiming to graduate in the Fall of 2025.  Prior to this, I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), where I earned a Bachelor's in Science. My research interests are diverse, having worked on projects ranging from the effects of Medicaid on physicians in Oklahoma to histological studies involving titanium implants in animal bones. These experiences have deepened my understanding of healthcare systems and scientific inquiry. In my free time, I enjoy lounging around with my two big dogs, Alfred and Oliver. Cooking is another passion of mine; I love using this time to reflect on my days and enjoy the creative process of making something from scratch.

Vice President - Odera Genevieve Onyema - Epidemiology, MPH 

Odera Onyema is a currently an MPH student with concentration in Epidemiology, at the Hudson College of Public health.  She bagged her first degree in Public health technology at Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria. She works as a Graduate research assistant on the CDC grant project aimed at creating awareness on Venous thromboembolism. She loves adventure, family, volunteering, listening to podcasts and reading. She is passionate about her Christian faith and steals every chance to share the gospel message of Jesus Christ.

Secretary - Skyley Teague- Health Administration and Policy, MHA 

Skyley is a third-year student in the Master of Healthcare Administration and Policy program. She conferred her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration with a focus on Healthcare Business, in 2016 at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Currently Skyley is serving the community working in the Emergency Departments for Norman Regional. Over the course of her 9-year tenure in Healthcare, Skyley has developed a keen passion for serving the healthcare community saying that she takes pride in serving people who care for others. It was working in healthcare through the covid-19 pandemic that inspired her to pursue her master’s degree to better serve the healthcare community she had grown so fond of, through that shared experience. In Skyley's leisure she enjoys staying active, cooking, and exploring different cuisines with her family. 

Treasurer - Toby Clampitt - Epidemiology, MPH

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.

Community Service Chair - Deepthi Padakandla 

Born in raised in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. I’ve lived here most of my life! Went to OU for undergrad and double majored in Biology and Religious studies. Currently, I’m working on getting my masters of healthcare administration here at OUHSC! I enjoy reading, scuba diving, and playing music when I can! 

Senator - David Bolade - Occupational and Environmental Health, PhD 

David Bolade is a second year doctorate student in Occupational and Environmental Health department and a Graduate Research Assistant working on exposure assessment of volatile organic compounds in workplace environment with Dr. Evan Floyd. He earned an MPH in Environmental Health Sciences from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria in 2016 and a B.Sc. in Biochemistry at Adekunle Ajasin University, Nigeria in 2011. He is committed to representing the interests and needs of his fellow students, and he understands the significance of students’ representation in making a positive impact on campus. In his spare time, David loves watching soccer and spending time with his family. 

Senator - Brandon Nguyen - Epidemiology, MPH

I'm in my 2nd year of my Masters of Public Health in Epidemiology. I currently work as a Graduate Research Assistant with the Sooner Survey Center and the Biostatistics and Epidemiology Research Design and Analysis Center (RDAC). Prior to my Masters, I received a Bachelors of Public Health with a minor in History from OU in 2023. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, video games, and playing basketball.

Interdisciplinary Programs & IPE Liaison - Brianna Anduss - Health Administration and Policy, MHA 

Brianna Anduss is a third-year student pursuing a Master of Health Administration. She recently graduated with her MBA with a concentration in Health Information Systems. In 2022, she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration with a double major in Healthcare Business and Marketing Supply Chain Management from the University of Oklahoma. At Hudson College of Public Health, she serves as the President of OUHESA, the IPE Liaison of HCOPHSA, the Academic Programs Committee Member, and a Graduate Research Assistant. Brianna has completed summer Healthcare Administrative Internships at UT Southwestern in Dallas, Texas, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. These internships have deepened her passion for equitable and accessible healthcare for pediatric and adult patients. After graduation, she plans to obtain an Administrative Fellowship to further her leadership development and pursue her goals. In her free time, Brianna enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, and spending time with her family and friends.

Sovereignty, Opportunity, Belonging, and Engagement Liaison - Rashmi Jaggad - Epidemiology, MPH 

Rashmi is a first year MPH Epidemiology student, with M.D.S. in Prosthodontics & Oral Implantology, and B.D.S. from India. She is currently working as a GRA with Dr. Junying Zhao, majorly on her various interdisciplinary vaccine research work. As an International student, Rashmi aims to combine her knowledge and exposure of Research and Epidemiology at OUHSC with her clinical skills as a Maxillofacial Prosthodontist to research extensively about Rehabilitation of cases like Geriatric Dental Rehabilitation, Oral Cancer, Mucormycosis & other Head & Neck defects, which she treated majorly back then in India. She is passionate about academics and firmly believes that academics & Practical work always go hand in hand, which helps the practitioner to be at the cutting edge. Outside of work, she is a family person and loves to lead & volunteer in social & community welfare activities. Few of her other hobbies include cooking, gardening & reading with interest in genres like: History & Political literature, Inspirational, Mystery, Scientific Fiction.

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 - Shannon Reeves
• Vice President - Sri Tarigonda
• Secretary - Navya Jeldi
• Treasurer - Nivedita (Nivi) Selvaraj
• Sebika Dulal

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.