Mariha D Ervin, MPH
Mariha Ervin, MPH, is a dedicated public health professional and Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) student at Mercer University, concentrating in social epidemiology. She currently serves as a Cross-Border Epidemiologist with the Kentucky Department for Public Health, where she supports disease surveillance, conducts case investigations, and uses data-driven analysis to help prevent and control the spread of enteric and infectious diseases. Mariha began her public health journey during the COVID-19 pandemic as a Data Epidemiologist and has since expanded her impact through regional and cross-jurisdictional collaboration. With a healthcare career that began in 2013, Mariha brings a well-rounded clinical and community health background to her epidemiology work. Her experience includes roles as a Certified Nursing Assistant, Dialysis Technician, Cardiopulmonary Technician, and Health Educator/Biometric Screener. This frontline experience shaped her deep commitment to community wellbeing and fuels her passion for advancing health equity. She approaches public health as both a science and a service, striving to ensure individuals and communities are heard, supported, and protected. Mariha earned her Master of Public Health from Eastern Kentucky University and is now pursuing her DrPH to deepen her expertise in the social drivers of health and disease. Known for her integrity, transparency, and collaborative spirit, she is committed to lifelong learning and professional growth. Her work is grounded in the belief that strong public health systems can create meaningful, lasting change—especially for populations that need advocacy the most.
• Communication and Leadership during a Public Health Crisis
• Eastern Kentucky University
• Mercer University
• Top Coursera Learner
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to continually seeking both knowledge and wisdom. Learning the technical side of my field has been important, but just as valuable has been understanding people, situations, and timing. That combination helps me make thoughtful decisions, grow from experience, and contribute in a meaningful way wherever I serve.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to stay open and never stop learning. Being willing to listen, grow, and step outside of my comfort zone has helped me develop new skills and see opportunities I might have otherwise missed. That mindset has shaped both my professional growth and my confidence in taking on new challenges.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering public health to stay open to learning and new opportunities. This field gives you the chance to wear many hats and discover where your strengths and passions align. If you want to create meaningful change, public health is a powerful place to start — it allows you to be a voice for underserved communities and make a real difference in people’s lives.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Right now, one of the biggest challenges in public health is the competitiveness of the field, along with limited pay and recognition. At the same time, there’s an opportunity to step up and make an impact, even when opportunities are slim or being overlooked, by finding creative ways to contribute and advocate for communities that need it most.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values I hold most important in my professional life are integrity, transparency, and teamwork, which guide how I collaborate and make decisions. In my personal life, I prioritize balance and self-care to stay grounded and maintain overall well-being.