Nestoria Lopez-Wright
Wichita,KS
Summary
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATION:
A highly motivated Public Health Specialist with a PhD in Public Health and 10+ years of experience as an infectious disease epidemiologist and Clinical Health Promotion and Education Specialist. Possesses in-depth knowledge of public health principles and a proven track record of conducting research, analyzing data, and developing effective interventions to address critical public health challenges. Proven ability to design, implement, and evaluate successful initiatives that promote health education, disease prevention, and access to healthcare services. Skilled in collaboration, communication, and community health engagement, fostering strong partnerships to achieve population health goals. Expert in developing academic Curriculum with extensive years of teaching experience.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Environmental Health Protection Director
Kickapoo Tribe In Kansas
2019.03 - Current
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- Evaluated employee performance objectively using established metrics, leading to fair compensation adjustments based on meritocracy principles.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or business operations.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Oversee and responsible for overall Management of the Environmental Health Programs for the Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas
- Supervising Environmental Health Program such as Air Quality, Water Quality Wetland, Tribal Response Program /Brownfield Solid Waste Management, Wastewater (Lagoon) Management Programs
- Supervising Public Health Emergency Management Response Program and Health Promotion Education and Health and Wellness Program.
- Plans, directs and coordinates activities of staff involved in developing the procedures and techniques to solve environmental problems.
- Analysis reports to evaluate programs effectiveness and budgetary needs
- Approves expenditures necessary for the completion of each Environmental program projects
- Determine data collection methods to be employed in the projects
- Prepares and control budget for functions of environmental programs
- Develops and implements methods and procedures for monitoring projects such as preparation of records of expenditures, research findings monthly progress reports and staff meetings in order to inform the managements of the current status of each EPA Environmental Protection Agency Program projects.
- Provides technical assistance to Tribal programs and agencies conducting related environmental studies
- Develop funding proposals for environmental areas concerning the Kickapoo Tribe
- Coordinates planning, testing, and operating phases of the EPA Project Projects
- Schedules and assigns duties to each KEO staff based on their knowledge of the specific disciplines.
- Coordinates with the Tribal Managers and/or Tribal Counsel to participate and work on the project activities and establish reporting procedures
- Recruits, hires, trains department staff, evaluate their performance and develop goals and objectives for staff and in conjunction with the Human Resources
- Negotiates contracts and consulting firms to perform research activities as called for in specific projects.
- Does all other duties as assign by the Tribal Chairperson,
- Writes and applies Grant funding from the different resources to sustain our Environmental Health Programs.
- Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Oversaw operations and provided corrective feedback to achieve daily and long-term goals.
- Improved project efficiency with strategic planning, resource allocation, and time management practices.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Evaluated company documentation to verify alignment with regulatory requirements.
- Negotiated favorable contracts with vendors for reduced costs and improved service quality.
- Monitored expenditures to mitigate risk of overages.
- Established departmental performance goals and provided feedback for underperforming areas.
- Optimized staff performance by designing comprehensive training programs tailored to individual needs.
- Secured key partnerships that contributed to the company''s overall growth strategy and market reach.
- Increased company revenue by streamlining processes and implementing cost-saving measures.
Clinical Health Education Program Coordinator
US AIR FORCE BASE
2010.02 - 2019.02
- Taught Be Well and Healthy Living Classes (Physical Performance Activities, Nutritional Performance, Stress Management, Tobacco Cessation classes) and Behavioral Change Classes
- Developed and Evaluated Health Promotion Strategic Planning, update the AFI 40-101, HIS, AAAHC for AFB Inspection
- Developed curriculum design, train-the-trainer, health education materials design, and social marketing
- Analyzed health promotion data to improve health promotion and education health and wellness programs
- Monitored physical fitness test result among the AF Active duty and developing physical fitness program to maintain their highest physical fitness performance
- Reported the result of the physical fitness and nutritional program activities for surveillance purposes and future references
- Developed and evaluated the general health and wellness center programs to maintain the highest and desirable physical fitness performance among the AF Active duty and their dependents.
- Implemented and executed health promotion, fitness and nutrition policy and program requirements IAW instructions and guidance established locally or by AF/SG
- Assisted in the development of ongoing action plans aligned with goals and objectives of the Population Health Working Group (PHWG) , Healthcare Integrator (HCI) and appropriate leadership
- Reviewed the action plan at least annually to evaluate program effectiveness
- Helped plans, coordinates, market and conduct evidence-based programs and services aimed at health improvement and mission performance related to HP goal areas
- Provided health education expertise, consultancy, and advocacy to support a comprehensive Air Force Fitness Program and other unit-based health promotion initiatives
- Maintained data quality management for program execution.
- Collaborated with installation health professionals and organizational leaders to identify and employ resources as appropriate to execute comprehensive prevention programs
- Communicated and coordinated health promotion programs among local leadership and target customers/beneficiaries
- Provided input when annual budgets are established
- Taught individuals and groups on a variety of health-related topics employing age-specific and behavioral learning theory (e.g. Adult learning theory, motivational interviewing)
- Delivered Health Promotion HP briefings, educational sessions, and seminars/workshops as required
- Provided expertise to develop, deliver and evaluate training programs for professional staff and colleagues on HP-related topics
- Implemented appropriate social marketing tools to meet program goals and objectives
- Maintained positive relationships with both internal and external AFMS customers
- Ensured compliance with Air Force Inspection Agency and the Joint Commission, and Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care
- Provided technical support to staff with necessary resources to carry out duties successfully.
- Led training sessions for staff and volunteers, fostering a knowledgeable and cohesive team environment.
- Developed effective communication strategies for improved collaboration among team members, resulting in increased productivity.
- Organized events and workshops to engage participants, enhancing their learning experience within the program framework.
- Analyzed program data by tracking and reporting program outcomes to identify areas of improvement.
- Managed budgets and resources for successful execution of multiple programs simultaneously.
- Monitored performance metrics closely to evaluate areas requiring intervention or adjustment, making data-informed decisions that contributed positively towards overall results.
- Developed marketing materials to promote program offerings, increasing awareness and participation rates among target audiences.
- Collaborated with other program coordinators to achieve consistency in program objectives and services.
- Facilitated regular meetings with team members to discuss progress updates, address challenges, and brainstorm solutions for ongoing success.
- Optimized resource allocation by using data analysis techniques to determine the most effective way of balancing project priorities and personnel availability, ultimately meeting deadlines with high-quality outcomes.
- Maintained detailed records of program activities and participant data, ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations.
- Developed program marketing and outreach strategies to increase awareness and attract new participants.
- Provided ongoing direction and leadership for program operations.
- Tracked and reported expenses accurately to manage program budgets.
- Designed program implementation and maintenance plan.
- Coordinated program logistics to keep all relevant materials and equipment available and in good condition.
- Assisted in the development of grant proposals, securing funding for vital program initiatives.
- Organized and managed program development from conception through successful execution.
- Conducted market research to identify trends and potential opportunities for program growth or expansion.
- Scheduled and supervised staff meetings to discuss new ideas and update participants on program details and milestones.
- Ensured seamless handover between different stages of projects by creating standard operating procedures that guided staff involved in various aspects of each task.
Adjunct Online Professor
Grand Canyon University
2009.01 - 2015.12
- Developed innovative instructional techniques to accommodate various learning styles, ensuring accessibility for all students.
- Managed course administration tasks efficiently, adhering to deadlines while maintaining high-quality content delivery for students.
- Established positive rapport with students, building trust and encouraging open communication within the online community.
- Improved student satisfaction ratings by consistently seeking feedback on course effectiveness and making necessary adjustments accordingly.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary courses, fostering a comprehensive educational experience for students.
- Served as a mentor for junior faculty members, sharing best practices in online education to promote professional development.
- Participated in ongoing training opportunities to refine teaching skills and stay current with advancements in distance learning technology.
- Enhanced accessibility of course materials by incorporating responsive design elements, ensuring seamless user experience across multiple devices.
- Evaluated student performance through assessments, providing timely feedback to foster academic growth and improvement.
- Increased student retention rates by offering personalized support and resources to address individual needs.
- Inspired intellectual curiosity by presenting diverse perspectives and challenging traditional assumptions in course materials.
- Enhanced student understanding by incorporating real-world examples and multimedia resources into online lectures.
- Facilitated connections between theoretical concepts and practical applications, enhancing overall comprehension for students.
- Promoted active learning through engaging discussion forums and group activities in the virtual classroom environment.
- Strengthened online learning community by actively participating in departmental initiatives such as webinars and virtual conferences.
- Expanded course offerings within the department by developing and launching new programs tailored to emerging industry demands.
- Contributed to course design improvements by providing constructive feedback and implementing new teaching strategies.
Online Adjunct Faculty Member
Andrew Taylor Still University ATSU
2010.01 - 2012.12
- Teaching Masters in Public Health Administration Class
- Managed guidebooks efficiently, submitting final grades promptly at the end of each term.
- Adhered strictly to institutional guidelines concerning accessibility requirements when creating course content.
- Collaborated with fellow faculty members to develop new course materials, resulting in more effective learning experiences for students.
- Utilized various digital tools to create interactive learning environments, increasing student participation in online discussions.
- Contributed to curriculum updates by providing input on content revisions and new resource suggestions, ensuring a relevant educational experience for students.
- Established rapport with students by maintaining a professional yet approachable demeanor throughout the course duration.
- Facilitated peer review activities within the classroom which encouraged collaboration among students.
Health Science Faculty
National American University
2007.08 - 2010.12
- Taught Health Science Courses such as Huma Anatomy, Human Physiology, Nutrition and Microbiology
- Presented research findings at national conferences, showcasing the institution''s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.
- Contributed to the improvement of departmental curricula by regularly reviewing course content and making necessary adjustments based on student feedback.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement within the department by actively seeking feedback from students and colleagues regarding instructional practices.
- Established a positive learning environment by creating engaging and inclusive classroom activities.
- Encouraged a growth mindset among students by providing regular opportunities for reflection, self-assessment, and goal-setting related to their academic progress.
Public Health Emergency Epidemiologist/Health Plan Advisor
Shawnee County Health Departyment
2001.03 - 2007.08
- Oversaw clinical infection prevention program in collaboration with hospital epidemiologists.
- Collaborated with public health authorities and coordinated services for infection control and prevention.
- Evaluated infection prevention and control measures and developed and implemented action plans for improvement.
- Communicated clearly and transparently regarding specific infection risks, debunked myths and clarified protection measures.
- Designed surveillance and analysis methods that permitted recognition and communication of infections.
- Delivered orientation and continuing education on infection prevention and control for staff members and the public.
- Maintained knowledge of medical regulatory and scientific procedures related to infection prevention.
- Tract infection trends within facility and reported specific infections and clusters to appropriate agencies.
- Investigated feasibility and effectiveness of disease treatment options.
- Educated physicians, residents and medical students about principles and applications of epidemiology.
- Evaluated foodborne parasitic diseases affecting public health in the Shawnee County areas.
- Monitored charting processes and increased accuracy with newly implemented EMR system.
- Updated EHR systems to document patient data and treatment plans.
- Expanded programs into new areas to advance research and enhance community healthcare.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of public health interventions using rigorous quantitative methods, ensuring optimal results for affected communities.
- Maintained data, reporting and quality assurance standards throughout investigations.
- Presented complex epidemiological findings in an accessible manner at conferences and workshops, facilitating greater understanding among diverse audiences.
- Surveilled notifiable infection conditions and outbreaks in Shawnee County
Education
Ph.D. - Public Health Epidemiology
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN01.2012
Master of Science - Public Health
Kansas University KU/WSU
Wichita, KS United States05.2003
Bachelor of Science - BS Healthcare Management -Major HSOP/Psychology
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS12.2001
Master of Science - MA in Education: Student Guidance And Counseling
University of San Carlos
Cebu City Philippines10.1994
Skills
- Environmental Health Programs expert
- Public Health Specialist
- Clinical Health Educator Specialist
- Epidemiologist/Health Planner
- Certified Health Education Specialist CHES/MCHES
- Public Health Instructor/Professor
- Clinical Health Researcher
- Clinical Research Studies
- Disease Outbreak Investigator
- Train employees Recruit well-qualified staff.
- Strategic Planning
- Operations Management
- Staff Development
- Team Management
- Staff Management
- Strategies and goals
- Partnerships and Alliances
- Project Management
- People Management
- Verbal and written communication
- Creativity and Innovation
- Program Management
- Financial Management
- Negotiation
- Logistics Management
- Budget Control
- Budget Management
- Legal and Regulatory Compliance
- Crisis Management
- Content Development
- Hiring and Retention
- Project Coordination
- Contract Management
- Issues Resolution
- Contract Negotiation
- Rules and regulations
- Donor Management
- Script review and revision
- Company guidelines
- Government relations
- Organizational Skills
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Decision-Making
- Problem-solving aptitude
- Team Leadership
- Multitasking
- Interpersonal Skills
- Team Collaboration
- Staff training/development
- Process Improvements
- Team building
- Effective leader
- Continuous Improvement
- Multitasking Abilities
- Problem-Solving
- Problem-solving abilities
- Analytical Thinking
- Data Analysis
- Task Prioritization
- Marketing Strategies
- Performance Evaluations
- Employee reviews
- Management Team Building
- Time management abilities
- Change Management
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Effective Communication
- Relationship Building
- Staff Scheduling
- Employee Motivation
- Schedule Management
Affiliations
- American Educational Research Association (AERA) 1/2008-present
- American Public Health Association (APHA) 2005-present.
- PHI KAPPA PHI Honor Society March 2003-present
- NCHEC 2007-PRESENT
Certification
- Certified Health EDUCATION SPECIALIST CHES/MECHES National Commission for Health Education NCHEC
Timeline
Environmental Health Protection Director
Kickapoo Tribe In Kansas
2019.03 - Current
Clinical Health Education Program Coordinator
US AIR FORCE BASE
2010.02 - 2019.02
Online Adjunct Faculty Member
Andrew Taylor Still University ATSU
2010.01 - 2012.12
Adjunct Online Professor
Grand Canyon University
2009.01 - 2015.12
Health Science Faculty
National American University
2007.08 - 2010.12
Public Health Emergency Epidemiologist/Health Plan Advisor
Shawnee County Health Departyment
2001.03 - 2007.08
Ph.D. - Public Health Epidemiology
Walden University
Master of Science - Public Health
Kansas University KU/WSU
Bachelor of Science - BS Healthcare Management -Major HSOP/Psychology
Wichita State University
Master of Science - MA in Education: Student Guidance And Counseling
University of San Carlos
- Certified Health EDUCATION SPECIALIST CHES/MECHES National Commission for Health Education NCHEC
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