CPH graduate brings expertise, passion to role
The University of Georgia College of Public Health is excited to announce Morgan Taylor (PhD ’23, MPH ’19) as the new director for the Institute for Disaster Management. Most recently, Taylor served as associate director of the institute and an assistant research scientist.
“Dr. Taylor brings an outstanding educational foundation, first responder roots, and a proven track record of success to this role,” said Dean Marsha Davis. “Her specialized work in nuclear threat modeling, combined with her ability to foster deep community partnerships across the Southeast, gives her a uniquely well-rounded perspective. I look forward to seeing her dynamic vision propel the institute forward.”
Taylor earned her undergraduate degree in chemistry from Emory University, along with her Advanced EMT (AEMT) license. She returned to school at the University of Georgia, earning a master of public health in disaster management and then a PhD in epidemiology and biostatistics.
Taking on this role is an opportunity to shape the future of IDM, Taylor said, as well as further develop the institute’s research portfolio and community impact.
“IDM has been such an important part of my own professional journey, which makes the opportunity to lead the Institute especially meaningful,” said Taylor. “I’ve seen firsthand the tremendous impact this team has through its teaching, research and outreach. I could not be more excited about working alongside our faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners to build on IDM’s successes and expand what we can accomplish together.”
An expert in leveraging big data for emergency preparedness, Taylor’s research focuses on nuclear threat modeling and using Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping to ensure underserved communities have equitable access to emergency alerts. Her community-focused leadership includes managing the state-funded Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Virtual Skills Evaluation Program to alleviate Georgia’s healthcare workforce shortages, the Rural Healthcare Facility Resilience Program and serving as Assistant Director for the UGA Medical Reserve Corps.
“ The future presents tremendous opportunities for IDM to grow its impact and help shape the field of disaster management,” Taylor said. “I am grateful to be a part of a team with such deep commitment to this work, and I am confident that by building on our expertise and partnerships, we can continue advancing preparedness and resilience in Georgia and beyond.”
