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.
Current Officers:
President: Niveditha Selvaraj
My name is Nivedita Selvaraj, and I am a PhD student in Biostatistics at the Hudson College of Public Health, where I also serve as a Graduate Research Assistant. I previously earned a Master’s in Business Analytics from the University of Utah and worked as a Data Analyst before beginning my doctoral studies. My research interests center on applying statistical and data-driven methods to better understand complex health and behavioral outcomes to inform public health research and practice. In addition to my academic work, I served as the Treasurer of the Epidemiologic Research Student Association (ERSA) from 2024 to 2026. Through these diverse roles, my focus is on fostering connection and collaboration among students, faculty, and staff to enrich the overall student experience and build a stronger academic community. Outside of my academic pursuits, I enjoy connecting with fellow students, exploring new places and volunteering at Integris Health.
Vice President: Eli Swartwood
Hello! My name is Eli Swartwood, and I am from Tulsa, Oklahoma. I am a Master of Health Administration student here at the Hudson College of Public Health. I have my Bachelor’s of Community Health from the University of Oklahoma. I am passionate about health care quality, operations, strategy, and business development.
Treasurer: Lillian Rivas
I am a second year Master of Health Administration student at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, developing the competencies to strengthen healthcare delivery through operational excellence, strategic leadership, and a commitment to health equity. I bring frontline and operational experience from Mercy. As well as community focused experience through INTEGRIS Health’s Hispanic Community Benefits department. I also recently completed an internship with WellSpace Health, where I contributed to clinical quality initiatives. Grounded in a public health foundation from the University of Central Oklahoma, I am committed to advancing health equity, integrated care delivery, and patient centered operational performance. Outside of my academic and professional work, I enjoy gardening, listening to healthcare podcasts, spending time with my family, and staying engaged in community events that keep me connected to the communities I aspire to serve.
Secretary: Kabran Sherfield
My name is Kabran Sherfield, and I am a graduate student pursuing a Master of Public Health with a concentration in Health Administration and Policy. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Public Health from the University of Central Oklahoma and currently work as a Community Health Worker at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. My professional interests include healthcare policy, health equity, and improving access to quality healthcare for underserved communities. I enjoy applying what I learn in the classroom to real-world public health challenges through my work and academic experiences. I look forward to expanding my knowledge, collaborating with my classmates, and making a positive impact in the field of public health.
Senator: Honieh Sowdagar
My name is Honieh Sowdagar, and I am a PhD student in Epidemiology at the Hudson College of Public Health. As a Senator for HCOPHSA, I am committed to serving my fellow students through advocacy, collaboration, and support of student initiatives. I look forward to working alongside my peers to help make this academic year an enjoyable and fulfilling experience for everyone.
Senator: Mandy Rethford
My name is Mandy Rethford and I am a second year Master of Health Administration student at the College of Public Health. I have chose to serve as the Senator for the Student Association to support my classmates, encourage connection, and help make the graduate student experience as rewarding as possible, within my time at the university. I look forward to fostering a positive and engaging student experience during the 2026-2027 academic year.
Community Service Chair: L’eric Houston
My name is L'eric Houston and I am a 2nd year MPH student in Health Promotion Sciences. I will be serving as this year's Community Service Chair. I am very excited to plan meaningful ways for us to come together as a collective to volunteer and serve our greater community!
Interdisciplinary Program & IPE Liaison: Navya Jeldi
Navya Jeldi, MPH, is a PhD student in Health Promotion Sciences at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She holds a degree in Dental Surgery from India and a Master of Public Health from Oklahoma State University. With a background in both clinical care and public health, her interests include health disparities, chronic health conditions, mental health, and children’s and women’s health.
Her current research focuses on diabetes and substance use, with a broader interest in behavioral health and improving health outcomes across diverse populations. She is passionate about public health, interdisciplinary collaboration, and creating meaningful connections within the academic and student community. Outside of her academic and professional work, Navya enjoys reading, art, and gardening.
SOBE Student Representative: Subash Singh
I am an MPH student in Epidemiology at the Hudson College of Public Health. I enjoy connecting with fellow students, exploring new places, watching movies and sports, and being part of a supportive and engaging student community.
Social Chair: Wyatt Ball
Wyatt Ball is a JD/MHA student at the University of Oklahoma, currently pursuing his law degree after completing his Master of Health Administration through the Hudson College of Public Health. His interests lie at the intersection of healthcare, law, and administration, with experience in healthcare operations and state government. As Social Chair, Wyatt looks forward to creating opportunities for students to connect, build relationships, and enjoy their time at Hudson. Outside of school, he enjoys golfing, spending time with friends and family, and cheering on the Sooners.