The College of Public Health has welcomed nine new faculty this fall. Join us as we get to know Andrew Kiselica, Magnolia Hernandez, Renato Ferreira Leitao Azevedo, Jacob Harth, Chao Huang, Cynthia Carmean, Liyuan Wang, Eunhae Shin and George Mois! Next up in our series is Cindy Carmean, a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management.
- Can you tell us about your background?
- I have over 20 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, with the last decade focused primarily on developing and expanding healthcare access in our community. I am proud to have contributed to the team at Piedmont Athens Regional during its ACGME accreditation for Internal Medicine and Transitional Year Graduate Medical Education Programs. My roles—ranging from Physician Relations and Interim Strategy Director at St. Mary’s Healthcare to Senior Market Director with the American Heart Association—have deepened my passion for education and helping others. I am honored to have played a part in advancing healthcare initiatives that make a meaningful impact.
- What brought you to UGA and the College of Public Health?
- My connection to UGA and the College of Public Health was built over the last 10 years serving as internship site coordinator and preceptor for many undergraduate, pre-med and graduate students. Most recently, I served as the Vice Chair of the UGA MHA Advisory Board. The College of Public Health aligns with my personal and professional goals to advance the health of all.
- What excites you or motivates you about being in the classroom and your research?
- I am deeply passionate about education and mentorship, and I am inspired by the opportunity to shape the future of the MHA program. Helping others realize and fulfill their potential, particularly in the complex and diverse field of healthcare, motivates me immensely. I find great fulfillment in educating, mentoring, and coaching those who aspire to lead in this dynamic workforce. It’s truly exciting to be part of their journey as they develop the skills and confidence to make a meaningful impact.
- How have you partnered with communities to improve health? Is there service or outreach work you’d like to do in Athens or Georgia?
- My outreach efforts have centered on initiatives that enhance healthcare access within our community. I have served on the board of directors for Project Safe in Athens and have organized and managed multiple community-based vaccine clinics during the pandemic. I’m a proactive problem-solver, and I envision fostering a strong collaborative environment between students in the College of Public Health and UGA medical students to further our outreach efforts. I believe that by working together, we can create meaningful change and improve health outcomes in Athens and throughout Georgia.
- What are you looking forward to this Fall semester?
- This Fall semester, I’m excited to build strong connections with each student in the MHA program. My goal is to support their educational journeys, career aspirations, and professional growth. I look forward to helping them discover their unique gifts and talents while developing their personal brands. Guiding students as they explore various healthcare career pathways is truly exciting!
- A few fun rapid-fire questions:
- Go-to road trip snack? I always grab a protein bar, just in case
- Coffee or tea order? Coffee first, always!
- One TV show or podcast you can’t stop talking about? Just finished the first season of Hacks, and anything that can make me laugh out loud gets my vote!
