The College of Public Health has welcomed ten new faculty this fall who we want to introduce to the wider CPH community. Up this week is Robert Coffman, Ph.D., who has joined the Department of Health Promotion & Behavior as an instructor.

What brought you to the field of public health? 

I first got into the field of public health after college when I took a position as a research assistant on a grant studying type 2 diabetes in middle schoolers. It was there that I realized how much I enjoyed helping communities on a personal level. I realized then that I wanted to go into public health so I could continue to try to improve the communities around me.

What excites you or motivates you about your research?

I think that joy carries over into my teaching as well. My favorite aspect of teaching is helping students try to find their passion in public health and aiding them in developing research ideas. I want to pass on my passion for public health to the next generation of health promoters.

How have you partnered with communities to improve health? Is there service or outreach work you’d like to do in Athens or Georgia? 

In the past, I’ve helped put on a health fair at the Specialty Care Clinic in Athens and worked with various substance use treatment programs in the area. Maybe most near and dear to my heart though, I helped lead Ridge Runners, an afterschool running program for elementary aged kids in underserved neighborhoods in Athens.

What are you looking forward to this Fall semester? 

This fall, I’m looking forward to meeting a new batch of students, fall colors, cheering on the Dawgs, good concerts, and running AthHalf!

Last one – what do you do for fun?

In my free time, I really love running. I’m currently training for AthHalf and the Philadelphia Marathon. I also love to cook. I’m always up for trying a new recipe!

Posted on October 26, 2022.