When she arrived at JHSPH for her MPH studies in 2008, Patti’s background was in journalism and communications—most recently working for a nutrition advocacy group in Washington, D.C.   She quickly discovered the CLF and became fascinated with the influences of agricultural practices, environmental regulations, food policies and local food environments on human health.

After finishing her MPH, Patti spent a year as a fellow at the Environmental Protection Agency focusing on the health and environmental impacts of biofuels before returning to begin work on her doctorate. Her research interests include public health risk communication strategies and policy strategies to reduce negative health and environmental impacts associated with the food system and the built environment.

As a research assistant and fellow at the CLF, Patti has taken advantage of opportunities to work with staff and fellow students—for example, translating scientific information into digestible commentary for the Center’s LivableFutureBlog and compiling information about urban gardening initiatives from experts around the country.  She appreciates that the multidisciplinary group of staff and fellows at the CLF are such great resources and that they are always willing to listen to an idea, talk about an exciting project and share their perspectives.

Following graduation, Patti plans to work as a public health practitioner and advocate for environmental health policies that better reflect scientific evidence (and common sense).  Her advisor is Dr. Thomas A. Burke, Associate Dean for Public Health Practice and Training, and Professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management and the Department of Environmental Health Sciences.

 To contact Patti, email her here.