Michelle Sabia, MPH, CPH, MWC

I attribute my success to the incredible women who have shaped my life. My mother raised my sister and me to be independent, resilient, and eager to embrace new experiences. My sister has devoted her career to helping others and has always inspired me to pursue my goals with purpose and determination.

I am also deeply grateful for my close friends, who are exceptionally talented, supportive, and inspiring. They encourage me during difficult times, celebrate my accomplishments as if they were their own, and continually remind me of what is possible. Their unwavering support has given me the confidence and strength to grow both personally and professionally, and I would not be where I am today without them.

The best career advice I've received is that not every job will be your dream job, and not every role will be one you genuinely enjoy. However, every experience presents an opportunity to learn, develop new skills, and grow professionally.

I've learned to view each position as a stepping stone rather than a final destination. Where you are today does not define where you'll be tomorrow, and every experience can help prepare you for the career you ultimately want to build.

My advice is to remember that your voice matters. You bring a unique perspective that no one else can offer, so don't let it go unheard or allow louder voices to intimidate you. Trust your education, your professional experience, your instincts, and your life experiences—they have value and deserve to be recognized.

I also encourage every woman to advocate for herself from the very beginning of her career. Negotiate your salary, benefits, and opportunities every time, because self-advocacy establishes a strong foundation for long-term success. Believe in your worth, speak with confidence, and never underestimate the impact you can have on your profession and your community.

Public health is navigating significant challenges, including federal funding reductions, research grant cuts, and the widespread growth of misinformation. These issues can make the profession feel uncertain, particularly for those just beginning their careers.

At the same time, I believe there are tremendous opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Public health extends far beyond traditional government agencies—it also thrives within nonprofit organizations, schools, healthcare organizations, and mission-driven private companies that are committed to improving community health.

I also believe volunteering remains one of the most valuable ways to expand your skills, build meaningful professional relationships, and contribute to your community. By remaining adaptable, creative, and collaborative, we can continue advancing meaningful public health initiatives despite today's challenges.

Integrity, honesty, and open, transparent communication are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. I believe in communicating clearly, being straightforward, and treating others with respect and professionalism.

When people communicate honestly and openly, it creates trust, strengthens relationships, and builds a culture of mutual respect. I believe these principles form the foundation for meaningful collaboration and lasting success.