Jordan Francis

Briefly describe your current role as a public health practitioner.

In my current role as a public health practitioner, I plan, develop and evaluate all aspects of the Darke County General Health District operations in order to ensure enforcement of all laws and regulations under the jurisdiction of the Board of Health and promote public health within the community. I monitor disease trends, sanitation concerns and community health indicators; review operations; suggest new and revised public health regulations, policies and programs for board approval; and ensure program effectiveness and the efficient delivery of public health services.

How did WVU and your experiences in the School of Public Health prepare you to be a public health professional?

I learned the theoretical underpinnings of public health, particularly regarding health behavior and how to network with like-minded individuals to effect change.

Tell us about your field placement experience or other hands-on experiences.

I participated in the Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board, WellWVU and the WVU Healthcare Wellness program. As part of Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board, I gathered data and went to public meetings. At WellWVU, I provided health education activities at various events. At WVU Healthcare Wellness, I did health education and population health management initiatives.

What does it mean to you to be first-generation?

It's special, because I'm blessed with a life that is much easier than my parents' lives. I also felt I owed it to them to successfully graduate and make the most of my degree.

What advice would you give today’s public health students?

A clinical degree can fast track your progress toward working in public health. Pursue what you genuinely care about.

What does public health mean to you?

Public health provides me with an altruistic mission that makes it easy to do my job. I need a career path that allows me to do good for others, and public health is the perfect venue for that.