Dr. Russell Brewer Receives Health Promotion Sciences Department Distinguished Alumni Award

In the world of public health, few individuals can boast a career as distinguished and impactful as Dr. Russell Brewer. With an extensive background in public health program development, implementation, and evaluation, his journey began with his academic pursuits, earning him the prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award from the Department of Health Promotion Sciences.

In 1998, Dr. Brewer earned his Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, setting the stage for a remarkable career. He went on to receive his Doctorate degree in Public Health (DrPH) from the OUHSC Hudson College of Public Health in 2005, demonstrating his commitment to furthering his knowledge and expertise in the field.

Dr. Brewer's illustrious career has seen him work across various sectors, including non-profit organizations, governmental public health agencies, and philanthropic institutions. This rich tapestry of experiences allowed him to build a unique skill set, which he has harnessed for the betterment of public health.

One of the pivotal points in Dr. Brewer's career came during his tenure as the Program Manager at FHI 360 (formerly AED) in Washington, DC from 2008 to 2011. In this role, he managed the partnership component of a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded national education initiative. The initiative aimed to build awareness and support for HIV vaccine research among populations most impacted by HIV. Dr. Brewer's work was instrumental in promoting HIV research and advocating for the most vulnerable populations.

From 2010 to 2012, Dr. Brewer was an HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) Scholar, where he conducted groundbreaking research. His focus was on examining the relationship between incarceration and HIV among Black sexual and gender minorities enrolled in the HPTN 061 study. This research had a profound impact on understanding the complex dynamics that contribute to the spread of HIV within marginalized communities.

From 2011 to 2017, Dr. Brewer took on a significant leadership role as he led the HIV/STI Portfolio at the Louisiana Public Health Institute in New Orleans. His work during this period was instrumental in improving public health outcomes in Louisiana, particularly in the field of HIV and sexually transmitted infections.

Dr. Brewer's relentless dedication to addressing the socio-structural barriers to HIV services among Black sexual and gender minorities (BSGM), persons living with HIV, and criminal-legal involved populations in Chicago and the Southern United States has made a significant difference. His implementation research and programmatic efforts have contributed to dismantling barriers such as incarceration and stigma that have long hindered access to essential healthcare services.

Currently, Dr. Brewer serves as Research Faculty at the University of Chicago, Department of Medicine, and holds the position of Director of Health Equity Research and Southern Initiatives for the Chicago Center for HIV Elimination. His work continues to shape public health policy and practice, particularly in the areas of HIV prevention and treatment, making a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals.

As a recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award, Dr. Russell Brewer's journey serves as an inspiration for current and future public health professionals. His tireless efforts in the field have brought about significant change and exemplify the potential for individuals to make a profound difference in public health.