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Minnesota Public Health Association

Since 1907, MPHA has been dedicated to creating a healthier Minnesota through effective public health practice and engaged citizens. 

STAFF 

Executive Director, Merry Grande











Operations Specialist










GOVERNING COUNCIL

MPHA Governing Council is made up of six elected officers, six elected at‑large members, one member from each of the four standing committees, and two student representatives. Any individual member, student/retired or sustaining member may hold office or serve as a member of the Governing Council.

Members of the Governing Council are constant ambassadors and proponents of MPHA. They ensure that the mission and vision of the organization moves forward through leadership and service.


President, Antonia Wilcoxon

What is your favorite thing about Minnesota?

I have built a community around me and I am grateful. As an immigrant, I have an obligation to be a servant leader. It is my thank you for the opportunities, life and security this state has extended to me.

I am so honored to be the President!!

Email Antonia


President-Elect, Kristin Moore

What is your favorite thing about Minnesota?

I was away from Minnesota for about 5 years and I was most surprised that I missed getting to experience all four seasons. But my absolute favorite thing about Minnesota is that my family is here.

Email Kristin


Immediate Past President, Ellen Saliares

What are you most looking forward to this year with MPHA?

I'm excited for upcoming work on rural health equity and have lots of anticipation for what the next conference theme will be!

What is your favorite thing about Minnesota? 

The summer activities - gardening, small town parades, farmers markets, and lakes!

Email Ellen


Secretary,Tarissa Host


Treasurer, Cherylee Sherry


Affiliate Representative to the Governing Council, Annie Halland

Why did you join MPHA?

To work with “my people” to make Minnesota a healthier place for all.

What are you most looking forward to in the next year for MPHA?

Learning and growing as take on this new role to be the representative for Minnesota at APHA and the Great Lakes Coalition.

What is your favorite thing about Minnesota?

Our vibrant cultures and natural resources.




Member-at-Large, Evett Ellis 

Why did you join MPHA?

I was introduced to the association by a colleague and I saw the wonderful work that has been done as a result of the collective body, and wanted to utilize my 3 cents to work towards making a difference bring a real life perspective from the BIPOC community.

What are you most looking forward to in the next year for MPHA?

Hands down the next MPHA conference is what I’m most excited about being apart of to help come up with exciting material and allowing great minds come together to problem solve and see what MPHA is doing for community in regards to the connection to public health.




Member-at-Large, Caleb Schultz












Member-at-Large, Jakesa Thompson

Why did you join MPHA?

I joined MPHA after being inspired by a colleague and member of MPHA. She consistently shared the engaging and impactful work that MPHA was and is doing, which prompted me to do my own research. I felt the urge to join after learning of the mission and vision of MPHA; to be an active voice for public health in Minnesota, creating a healthier place for us to live. Community health is near to my heart, and MPHA recognizes and champions that.

What are you most looking forward to in the next year for MPHA?

I'm most looking forward to MPHA growing in membership and having a wider footprint in Minnesota. MPHA is already doing such impactful work in policy and health equity. I'm so excited to be a part of an organization that focuses on community health and making tangible results in the community we live in



Member-at-Large, Tolu Oyelowo














Member-at-Large, Connie Norman










Student Representatives


Marvellous Ogunsola


Sara Hildreth

Learn about our Committee Chairs on their Committee Pages

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