Andrea McDonald, PhD., CHES.

I attribute my success to a combination of intentional purpose, disciplined execution, and a deep commitment to impact. At the core is purpose-driven work. I have been very clear about why I do what I do—advancing public health, addressing disparities, and creating opportunities for underserved communities. That clarity has guided my decisions; from the courses I develop to the research and grants I pursue. Equally important is consistency and work ethic. Success has not come from isolated efforts but from sustained commitments such as showing up prepared, meeting deadlines, leading initiatives, and continuously refining my work. Whether it’s curriculum development, grant writing, or mentoring students, I approach each task with intention and follow-through. I also attribute my success to collaboration and relationships. Building strong partnerships with colleagues, students, and community stakeholders has expanded my reach and strengthened the quality of my work. I don’t work in isolation; I build with others. Another key factor is mentorship and paying it forward. I have benefited from guidance, and I make it a priority to mentor the next generation. Investing in students not only multiplies impact but also keeps my work grounded in real-world relevance. Finally, adaptability and innovation have been essential. I embrace new ideas—whether integrating AI into the classroom or developing interdisciplinary programs because growth requires evolving with the field.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is to be intentional about my path—don’t just stay busy, be strategic. Early in my career, it was easy to say yes to every opportunity, but I quickly learned that not everything contributes meaningfully to long-term goals. This advice encouraged me to evaluate each decision through the lens of alignment and impact, asking whether it supports my mission in public health and health equity. As a result, I became more selective with leadership roles, more focused in my research and teaching, and more deliberate in building a cohesive body of work. It also helped me understand that a strong career should tell a clear, connected story in which each experience builds on the next. Ultimately, this guidance shifted my mindset from simply doing more to doing what matters most with purpose, clarity, and intention.

My advice to young women entering the field of public health is to be confident in your voice and intentional about your purpose. This field needs your perspective, your lived experiences, and your ideas—especially when addressing complex issues like health disparities and equity. Do not wait until you feel “ready” to contribute; step forward, ask questions, and engage in meaningful work early. Seek out mentors who will support and challenge you, but also learn to advocate for yourself in spaces where your voice may be overlooked.

It is equally important to be strategic about your growth. Align your education, research, and professional experiences with the impact you want to make, rather than simply following opportunities that come your way. Build strong relationships and collaborations, as public health work is deeply rooted in community and teamwork. At the same time, protect your time and energy—burnout is real in this field, and sustainability matters.

Finally, remember that your career is not just about advancement, but about influence. You have the ability to shape systems, improve communities, and open doors for those coming behind you. Be the sunflower that shines every day, because on the day you are not shining, someone will miss your light. Walk in confidence, remain adaptable, and never underestimate the power of your presence and purpose in this work.

Public health is currently facing a set of interconnected challenges and opportunities that are shaping the future of the field. Major challenges include the increasing complexity of global health issues—such as the intersection of climate change, chronic diseases, and health inequities—along with strained health systems, workforce shortages, and growing misinformation that undermines public trust. At the same time, these challenges present significant opportunities for innovation. Advances in technology and AI are transforming how health data is used, while there is a stronger shift toward prevention, holistic care, and addressing social determinants of health. Additionally, interdisciplinary collaboration and a growing focus on health equity are creating pathways to develop more effective, inclusive solutions. Together, these dynamics position public health at a critical point where strategic leadership and innovation can drive meaningful, lasting impact.

The values that guide both my work and personal life are purpose, integrity, impact, and compassion. I believe in being intentional about the work I do, ensuring that it aligns with a greater purpose, particularly advancing health equity and improving the well-being of underserved communities. Integrity is central to everything I do; I value honesty, accountability, and staying true to my principles, even when faced with challenges. I am also deeply driven to make an impact through my efforts to create meaningful, lasting change through teaching, research, and community engagement. Equally important is compassion, as it allows me to connect with others, understand diverse experiences, and lead with empathy. These values not only shape how I approach my professional responsibilities but also influence how I show up for others in my everyday life.