Forge AHEAD Center welcomes champion for community engagement in Louisiana

The Forge AHEAD Center is excited to welcome Andrea Pickett, Louisiana Clinical and Translational Science Center (LA CaTS) Community Engagement and Outreach Program coordinator at Pennington Biomedical Research Center, to our growing team. Andrea brings extensive experience in community-based mental health services, disaster response, and public health, making her a key addition to our mission of improving health outcomes across the Deep South.

Andrea’s passion for solving problems and caring deeply for people in the southern United States has guided her career. Holding a Bachelor of Science in psychology and currently pursuing her master’s in public health, she has dedicated herself to building relationships, crafting clear health messages, and connecting communities to critical health education and resources. Her approach to engagement is deeply rooted in community organizing strategies, ensuring individuals and families have access to the tools they need to support their well-being.

“In my work, I strive to build relationships and create clear messages that people can understand,” Andrea said. “My goal is to continue promoting health education, expanding access to care, and learning more about the relationship between stress and health behavior.”

Inspired by Forge AHEAD’s focus on partnerships, strengthening communities, and using the best approaches to outreach, Andrea sees her role as an opportunity to connect people to the resources they need and foster collaboration for long-term impact.

Her personal connection to the work runs deep. “Growing up in rural South Louisiana, listening to the experiences of others, and appreciating their stories is what motivates me to continue working to improve health outcomes and address barriers to care,” she said. “My experiences in disaster response have also helped me develop a better awareness of people’s needs and the diversity in the way we communicate. This has empowered me to ask better questions about the root causes of health challenges and be creative in partnership development and leveraging resources.”

Beyond her work in public health, Andrea is a strong advocate for arts education, recognizing how creative expression fosters critical thinking, community connection, and stress reduction. “Engaging in art has a profound way of bringing people together, fostering creativity, and reducing stress,” she said.

When she’s not working, she enjoys volunteering, attending community events, visiting local theaters and art galleries, crafting, and going on adventures with her family.

Andrea’s dedication, innovative thinking, and passion for community-driven solutions make her an invaluable addition to the Forge AHEAD team. We are excited to have her expertise and vision as we continue working toward stronger, healthier communities.

Forge AHEAD Center launches Community Micro-Grant Program to strengthen health initiatives across the deep south

The Forge AHEAD Center is proud to announce the launch of its Community Micro-Grant Program, an initiative designed to support organizations in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi that are working to improve health outcomes related to diabetes, obesity, and hypertension.

Through this program, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations will have the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 in funding to implement community-driven health initiatives that address critical health needs in their local areas. The program is managed by the Community Engagement Core (CEC) of Forge AHEAD, which works to build sustainable partnerships between academic institutions, community organizations, and public health leaders to advance equitable health solution

Empowering Communities with Targeted Support

The Deep South faces some of the highest rates of chronic disease in the country, and many local organizations are already leading efforts to improve community health. The Forge AHEAD Community Micro-Grant Program is designed to provide the financial resources and support these groups need to scale their efforts and drive lasting change.

“We believe that the best solutions come from within the communities themselves,” said Caroline Compretta, Ph.D., Community Engagement Core Lead. “This micro-grant program allows us to directly support organizations that are already working to improve the lives of their neighbors. By providing funding, resources, and ongoing support, we can help amplify their impact and create lasting change.”

The program prioritizes projects that focus on health education, disease prevention, and increasing access to care, particularly in underserved communities. Projects will be evaluated based on feasibility, innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, ensuring that awarded funds go to initiatives with a clear and measurable impact.

Community Voices Leading the Charge

One of the unique aspects of the micro-grant program is the involvement of the Forge AHEAD Community Advisory Board (CAB), which plays a critical role in guiding the center’s initiatives and ensuring that its work is responsive to the real needs of the communities it serves.

“Our communities have the knowledge, passion, and solutions to tackle health challenges—we just need the resources to make it happen,” said a CAB member. “This grant program is an incredible opportunity for local organizations to access funding and support that will help turn their ideas into action.”

The program includes monthly support meetings, a mid-year progress check-in, and a final impact report, ensuring that grantees receive ongoing guidance and assistance throughout the year-long funding period.

Key Dates and How to Apply

The application process is now open, with proposals due by April 18, 2025. Organizations interested in applying can access the Request for Proposals (RFP) and submission details on the Forge AHEAD Center website.

Key dates include:

RFP Release Date: February 19, 2025
Application Deadline: April 18, 2025
Grant Awards Announced: May 19, 2025
Project Start Date: July 1, 2025
Project Completion Deadline: June 30, 2026

For more information or to apply, visit the Forge AHEAD Website.

Enhancing food access in Mississippi: How Stewpot and Mississippi Food Network are driving community solutions

What if accessing your next nutritious meal was uncertain? For nearly one in six Mississippians, this is a daily reality. According to the Mississippi Food Network (MFN), approximately 480,600 residents—more than 18% of them children—face limited access to nutritious food. In Jackson, the challenge is even greater, as disparities in access to fresh, healthy food continue to shape community health outcomes.

Reliable access to nutritious food is essential for well-being, economic stability, and overall quality of life, yet many families encounter barriers to obtaining fresh, healthy meals.

March is National Nutrition Month, a time to highlight the importance of balanced nutrition and recognize the organizations working year-round to expand food access. In Mississippi, Stewpot Community Services and the Mississippi Food Network are making a lasting impact, not just by providing meals but by developing long-term solutions that promote healthier communities.

At the heart of these efforts is collaboration between research and community action. Jill Buckley, Executive Director of Stewpot, and Cassandra Mobley, Chief Operating Officer at Mississippi Food Network, serve on the Forge AHEAD Community Advisory Board (CAB), working to connect academic research with real-world needs. Their involvement ensures that communities facing food access challenges are represented in health research and policy discussions, advancing initiatives that improve nutrition and support community health across the South.

Stewpot: More Than a Meal

At Stewpot Community Services, the mission goes beyond providing meals to creating a sense of dignity and stability for those in need. Located in downtown Jackson, Stewpot serves hundreds of meals daily while also offering shelter, clothing, and other essential services.

“For us, food is the entry point,” says Buckley. “It’s how we build relationships and trust with the people we serve. But we also want to connect them to additional resources—whether it’s medical care, housing assistance, or job training.”

Stewpot recognizes that nutrition plays a key role in addressing food access challenges. “When we think about food insecurity, it’s not just about access—it’s about access to the right foods,” Buckley explains. “It’s about making sure that people aren’t just eating but eating well.”

Stewpot partners with local organizations to increase access to fresh produce and balanced meals, reducing reliance on processed foods. However, Buckley acknowledges that there are still significant barriers: “Fresh food is harder to store, harder to transport, and harder to get out in large quantities. But we’re committed to making it happen because it makes a real difference.”

“When we think about food insecurity, it’s not just about access—it’s about access to the right foods.”

– Jill Buckley

Mississippi Food Network: Tackling Hunger on a Larger Scale

While Stewpot serves meals directly to those in need, the Mississippi Food Network operates at a larger scale, distributing food to more than 430 partner agencies across the state. Their work ensures that local food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens—including Stewpot—have the resources they need to serve their communities.

“Mississippi ranks among the states with the most significant food access challenges,” says Mobley. “Our mission is to change lives by fighting hunger today and feeding hope for a healthier tomorrow.”

One of MFN’s key strategies is providing nutritious options to partner agencies. “We don’t just want to get food out—we want to get healthy food out,” Mobley explains. “That means working with farmers, securing fresh produce, and making sure people have the knowledge and resources to make healthy choices.”

MFN also focuses on education. “A lot of people want to eat healthier, but they may not know how to prepare fresh foods or stretch their grocery budgets to include more nutritious options,” Mobley says. “That’s why we invest in nutrition education programs—because addressing hunger isn’t just about food, it’s about knowledge.”

How Forge AHEAD Supports Research-Driven Food Access Solutions

Both Buckley and Mobley emphasize that food access is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Poor nutrition is linked to higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses, particularly in Mississippi’s communities with limited food access. That’s why their involvement with Forge AHEAD’s CAB is so important.

“We don’t just want to get food out—we want to get healthy food out.”

– Cassandra Mobley

Through Forge AHEAD, researchers are learning from community leaders like Buckley and Mobley about what truly works. Recent studies have shown that integrating fresh produce into food pantries can improve health outcomes, leading to more funding for nutrition-focused programs across Mississippi.

“It excites me that researchers are interested in hearing voices from the community as they are looking at their research projects,” says Mobley. “The CAB gives us a way to connect what researchers are doing with what our communities need.”

Through Forge AHEAD, both Buckley and Mobley contribute to research projects focused on food access, health outcomes, and community-based solutions. This collaboration helps ensure that research is actionable and addresses real-world needs.

“Research should never just sit in an academic journal,” says Buckley. “It should be something that people can use to make better choices for themselves and their families.”

How You Can Help During National Nutrition Month

For those looking to make a difference this National Nutrition Month, both organizations offer ways to get involved:

✅ Volunteer – Whether serving meals at Stewpot or packing food boxes with MFN, community support is crucial.

✅ Donate – Both organizations rely on donations to keep their programs running.

✅ Advocate – Support policies and programs that improve food access in your community.

✅ Educate – Learn about the importance of nutrition in addressing food access and share that knowledge with others.

“Hunger isn’t just about not having enough food—it’s about not having the right food,” Mobley reminds us. “And if we’re serious about tackling food insecurity, we have to address both.”

Get Involved

Visit Mississippi Food Network and Stewpot Community Services to learn more about their programs, volunteer opportunities, and how you can help fight food insecurity in Mississippi.

A Path Forward

Mississippi’s food access challenges won’t be solved overnight, but thanks to the work of organizations like Stewpot and MFN, progress is being made.

By combining on-the-ground action, community engagement, and research, these organizations are feeding people today and working toward a healthier, more food-secure future for Mississippi’s communities.

You can make a difference by volunteering, donating, or supporting local programs that increase access to nutritious food. Expanding food access helps strengthen community health and well-being.

Tuskegee leads exploration of AI’s role in improving health outcomes in the deep south

Tuskegee University (TU), a Forge AHEAD Center (FAC) partner, led discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and public health at a recent bioethics forum marking its 10th anniversary.

The Forge AHEAD Center joined the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) to explore AI’s role in healthcare ethics, innovation, and community engagement.

Stephen Sodeke, Ph.D., professor at Tuskegee and core faculty with Forge AHEAD’s Community Engagement Core, hosted the forum. Other attendees included Timothy Turner, Ph.D., associate vice president for research at Tuskegee; Chris Williams, a Forge AHEAD community advisory board member; Carol Agomo, Ph.D., and Jared Ball, Forge AHEAD staff members.

Sodeke opened by emphasizing that AI is actively shaping healthcare systems today. “We have a journey ahead with AI, and we must keep the conversation going,” he said.

Keynote speaker Francesca G. Weaks, DrPH, reinforced the importance of responsible AI development that considers broad community input. Participants discussed strategies to ensure transparency and minimize bias in AI applications.

Chris Williams reflected on the depth of the discussions, stating: “The CCTS Bioethics Forum presented a very enlightening delve into the pros and cons of artificial intelligence. While many feel it is a great tool (and it is), there are several challenges to ensuring that it is utilized in a manner that maintains integrity on several levels. The benefits are real, but so are the concerns, so conversations like this are essential to align AI with the needs and values of those who may be impacted by it.”

Agomo, who serves as FAC community engagement lead in Alabama, shared insights on AI integration in public health communications.

“AI is a powerful tool, but human expertise must remain at the center of its use. In public health, we use AI tools with intention—leveraging them to enhance our work while ensuring final oversight remains in the hands of professionals,” Agomo said.

“The CCTS Bioethics Forum presented a very enlightening delve into the pros and cons of artificial intelligence. While many feel it is a great tool (and it is), there are several challenges to ensuring that it is utilized in a manner that maintains integrity on several levels.”
-Chris Williams, FAC CAB Member

Ball, FAC data analyst, noted: “The forum reinforced the importance of transparency in AI-driven decision-making. As someone who works with AI and data, it was valuable to discuss how we can ensure fairness and accountability in the process. We must learn to use AI to assist us, not as the decision-maker, and govern the work we do.”

The Forge AHEAD Center and UAB CCTS continue their partnership to connect research, ethics, and healthcare applications through community engagement and translational research.

Carol Agomo, Ph.D., shares on a panel during the forum

The 2025 Birmingham Black Male Summit: Empowering, Connecting, and Driving Change

The 3rd Annual Black Male Summit in Birmingham was an inspiring and transformative gathering that brought together thought leaders, professionals, and community advocates from across the region. Focused on strengthening and supporting Black men and the communities they belong to, this year’s summit featured engaging discussions, interactive workshops, and valuable networking opportunities.

Among the distinguished speakers was City of Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, who provided critical insights on the city’s health landscape. He noted, “When the U.S. has a cold, Alabama has the flu, and when Alabama has the flu, Birmingham has pneumonia.” His statement emphasized the ways in which national health disparities are magnified at the local level, emphasizing the urgency of targeted community interventions.

The Forge AHEAD Center (FAC) participated in this year’s event, contributing to conversations on economic mobility, public safety, and health equity. Carol Agomo, Ph.D., director for community outreach and engagement in Alabama for FAC, and Jared Ball, MPH, program evaluator for FAC, engaged with attendees to share the center’s mission and gain insights into the pressing health challenges affecting Black men in Birmingham.

A key takeaway was the increasing interest in leveraging community programs to create job opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and stronger relationships with public safety organizations, alongside addressing physical health.

At the FAC engagement table, conversations organically centered on partnerships with local organizations and the connections between critical issues such as gun violence, chiropractic care access, and cardiovascular health. These conversations highlighted the community’s desire for a holistic approach to well-being.

“It was incredibly inspiring to connect with so many dedicated individuals and organizations committed to uplifting Black men and improving health outcomes in our communities,” said Agomo. “The partnerships and ideas that emerged from this summit reinforce the power of collaboration, and we look forward to building on this momentum in meaningful ways.”

The 2025 Black Male Summit highlighted the impact of collective action, knowledge-sharing, and mentorship in shaping a healthier and more resilient future. With tailored sessions for men of all ages and the women who support them, the event created a space for learning, growth, and collaboration.

“The partnerships and ideas that emerged from this summit reinforce the power of collaboration, and we look forward to building on this momentum in meaningful ways.”
-Carol Agomo, Ph.D.

Ball also reflected on the summit’s impact, particularly in engaging with students. “Meeting young people eager to apply their academic knowledge to public health issues was a highlight of our experience. We hope to further connect them with the work of the Forge AHEAD Center, inspiring the next generation of leaders committed to improving health outcomes in their communities.”

As we move forward, the relationships and insights gained from this summit will help advance our mission. We extend our appreciation to the organizers, speakers, and attendees who made this event such a meaningful and impactful experience.

Heart health takes teamwork: How Forge AHEAD and one UAB researcher are creating lasting change

High blood pressure silently affects over 42% of adults in Alabama, often without noticeable symptoms, making it a serious health risk. Managing this condition can be challenging, especially when striving for lasting changes that improve health.

Did You Know?

Black communities in particular experience higher impacts due to longstanding barriers to accessing health resources. Addressing these challenges requires community-driven solutions to support individuals and families in achieving better health outcomes.

With the support of the Forge AHEAD Center, Kaylee Crockett, Ph.D., a scholar and researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) in the Department of Family and Community Medicine, is working to change this story. Her innovative Heart Care Pairs program, supported by two Forge AHEAD pilot awards, is helping patients and their loved ones team up for better heart health.

What Are Heart Care Pairs?

Heart Care Pairs believes everyone deserves support in managing their health. Through this program, individuals managing high blood pressure collaborate with a trusted partner, a spouse, family member, or close friend—to build healthier habits together.

“We believe that involving a supportive partner in their healthcare will empower patients to make lasting changes in their heart health and emotional well-being too. We really hope Heart Care Pairs will set a precedent that health is a team activity, not just for individuals to go alone”, Crockett explains.

Heart Care Pairs involves up to six sessions with a behavioral health specialist, either in person or through telehealth. Together, participants:

Learn practical ways to improve their diet, physical activity, sleep, and stress management.
Set shared goals for heart health.
Build communication skills to support each other in meaningful ways.

The result? Healthier hearts, stronger relationships, and a path toward lasting well-being.

Kaylee Crockett, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine, UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Learn more about Crockett.

Why Heart Care Pairs?

When someone has a trusted partner helping them with health-related decisions and lifestyle changes, they are more likely to succeed in managing their condition.

Why It Matters in Our Communities

In Alabama, Black adults and individuals living with lower incomes are disproportionately affected by hypertension. Without proper care, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, strokes, and other serious conditions.

As a National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)-funded center, Forge AHEAD partners with communities across Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana to develop solutions that work for the people they serve.

“Forge AHEAD supports active community engagement in the research process”, says Crockett. “Heart Care Pairs is meeting primary care patients and their potential care partners where they are and soliciting their feedback on the resources they need most for better heart health. With them, our program can yield the information, communication tools, and support they need to succeed.”

How Forge AHEAD Makes It Possible

Crockett’s projects—Adaptation and Initial Feasibility of a Primary Care-Based Dyadic Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Intervention: Heart Care Pairs (awarded in 2024) and Pilot Testing of a Primary Care-Based Dyadic Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Intervention: Heart Care Pairs (awarded in 2025)—are funded by the Forge AHEAD Pilot & Feasibility Scholars Program. These grants are designed to help researchers address local health disparities with tailored solutions.

Crockett’s Forge AHEAD Pilot Projects

Adaptation and Initial Feasibility of a Primary Care-based Dyadic Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Intervention: “Heart Care Pairs”

LEARN MORE

a patient sitting on an examination table in an exam room, with

A mixed methods pilot feasibility study of a primary care-based dyadic cardiovascular risk reduction intervention: “Heart Care Pairs”

LEARN MORE

This support allows Crockett to work directly with primary care clinics in Alabama, recruiting patients and their partners, listening to their needs, and refining the program to fit real-life challenges. The ultimate goal? A scalable model that can improve heart health across the South and beyond.

Heart Health Is a Community Effort

For years, differences in healthcare access have contributed to uneven health outcomes, leaving many feeling unheard. Researchers like Crockett are working to change this. By empowering individuals and their families to take charge of their heart health, they are helping to build stronger, healthier communities.

This Heart Health Month, Forge AHEAD invites you to join the effort. Whether it’s encouraging a loved one to visit the doctor, making small changes to your own habits, or spreading the word about programs like Heart Care Pairs, you can be part of the solution.

Get Involved with Forge AHEAD

Join us in expanding access to quality care and supporting innovative programs like Heart Care Pairs Learn more about our work, connect with our scholars, staff, or community partner organizations, and join the movement for healthier, more equitable communities.

Because better health starts with us—working together.

“We believe that involving a supportive partner in their healthcare will empower patients to make lasting changes in their heart health and emotional well-being too. We really hope Heart Care Pairs will set a precedent that health is a team activity, not just for individuals to go alone” -Crockett

Spotlight on the Birmingham Black Male Summit: Promoting health equity and community wellness for Black Men

Spotlight on the Birmingham Black Male Summit: Promoting Health Equity and Community Wellness for Black Men

The Birmingham Black Male Summit is on a mission to enhance the quality of life for Black men in Birmingham by addressing critical areas of mental, physical, emotional, and financial health. Through meaningful collaborations with organizations like the Forge AHEAD Center, the Summit amplifies its mission of advancing health equity. Dedicated to serving communities of color, the organization thrives through partnerships that amplify its impact.

As the Summit enters its third year, founder and coordinator Darrell Forte shares his deeply personal motivation for leading this transformative effort. For Darrell, this work is not just professional; it’s personal. Driven by a desire to change the narrative around Black men’s lives and to honor his father and brother’s legacies through community empowerment, Darrell emphasizes the importance of collaboration.

Partnerships with organizations like the Forge AHEAD Center are key to expanding their reach and increasing their influence in addressing health disparities and promoting equity for Black men and their families.

Forte shared, “Partnerships are essential to the work we do. They help us expand our reach, increase our credibility, and connect with the community in meaningful ways. When organizations like the Forge AHEAD Center collaborate with us, it’s not just about resources, it’s about building trust and amplifying impact.”

Breaking Barriers to Better Health

Authenticity and cultural sensitivity are central to the Summit’s approach. The third annual Summit, scheduled for February 8, 2025, promises to be a pivotal event for the Birmingham community. With a focus on empowering healthy lifestyles, the Summit will include a health panel, breakout sessions on critical topics like physical and mental health, financial wellness, leadership development, and more.

When asked what advice he would give to others addressing similar health issues in their communities, Darrell said, “Do it organically. Meet people where they are. Document but do it with care. Go out there with good intentions. Have culturally relevant language and have people who can be accessible at the event.”

This philosophy drives the Summit’s efforts to make health resources approachable and inclusive. For example, the organization addresses logistical barriers by providing school buses for student attendees, ensuring transportation barriers don’t limit participation. Darrell is also working to secure additional resources and partners to support the Summit’s success. The organization’s commitment to meeting people where they are and fostering trust ensures that their impact extends far beyond the event itself.

“Do it organically. Meet people where they are. Document but do it with care. Go out there with good intentions. Have culturally relevant language and have people who can be accessible at the event.”

Year-Round Initiatives Supporting Community Wellness
The Summit’s work extends beyond its annual conference. Monthly community activations, direct-service mentoring, and a private group chat for health discussions foster ongoing engagement. Early morning gym workouts and educational events bring people together, bridging gaps and promoting understanding across the African diaspora.

A new resource guide—covering local healthcare providers, grocery stores, and essential services—is in development to further support community members. Available in both physical and online formats, this tool aims to meet people where they are.

2025 Summit Highlights: Education, Empowerment, and Action

This year’s Summit will feature keynote speakers who are leaders in health equity, entrepreneurship, and community resilience such as Derrick Brooms, Ph.D., professor and executive director of the Black Men’s Research Institute at Morehouse College, Abdie Mohamed, lead cloud governance engineer at Lockheed Martin, and Damion Wright, a leader from Intuit, the parent company of Mailchimp, TurboTax, and Credit Karma. A health panel led by experts will address critical health topics.

Feedback from past attendees highlights the Summit’s transformative impact. From success stories shared by community members to personal testimonials from Darrell’s own family, the event continues to change lives.

Alabama ranks 3rd to last in the US in deaths due to heart disease.

Source

A Special Focus on Heart Health During American Heart Month

As we enter February, American Heart Month, the Birmingham Black Male Summit’s commitment to promoting heart health takes on special significance. Darrell shares a poignant personal story about his grandfather, who suffered a heart attack at just 42 years old. Stories like this reinforce the importance of regular check-ups and proactive health monitoring.

When asked what he wishes more people knew about heart health, Darrell said, “There is no age [minimum].” He emphasized that “heart disease has no name. It can be you. That’s why getting your blood pressure checked is important.”

The Summit’s inclusion of topics like heart-health aligns with its broader mission to foster healthier lifestyles through education, free health screenings, and community engagement. By addressing preventable conditions like hypertension and raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, the Summit is saving lives and reshaping health outcomes for Black men in Birmingham.

This February, as we reflect on the importance of heart health, let’s recognize the incredible work of the Birmingham Black Male Summit. Their efforts are a powerful reminder that improving community health begins with trust, education, and action.

Join us in driving cardiovascular health equity by registering for the 2025 Birmingham Black Male Summit.

For more information about American Heart Month and tips for community health, please visit the resources below.

“There is no age [minimum].” He emphasized that “heart disease has no name. It can be you. That’s why getting your blood pressure checked is important.”

Eating Healthy Heart-Check Foods

Eating Healthy Add Color

Healthy Living Making Habits Stick

Fitness Staying Motivated

Coming Up for Heart Health Month: Forge AHEAD’s February Initiatives

Celebrate American Heart Month with Forge AHEAD!

This February, we’re shining a spotlight on heart health and health equity. Together we can take action to improve cardiovascular wellness across our communities. Here’s how YOU can join the movement:

1.
National
Wear Red
Day

National Wear Red Day – February 7, 2025

Let’s raise awareness for heart health! We’re inviting all Forge AHEAD members—staff, investigators, and supporters—to wear red in recognition of National Wear Red Day.

📸 How to Participate:

Snap a photo and share it on social media! Tag us @ForgeAHEADCenter and use #ForgeAHEART. We can’t wait to see your heartwarming smiles in support of this cause. ❤️

2.
Birmingham
Black Male
Summit

Birmingham Black Male Summit – February 8, 2025

Forge AHEAD is a proud co-sponsor of the Birmingham Black Male Summit, a transformative event focused on empowering Black men through health equity, leadership, and resilience.

💡 Why It Matters:

This year’s Summit is particularly special as it aligns with American Heart Month, emphasizing cardiovascular health. Founder Darrell Forte shares:

“Heart disease has no age minimum. It can be you. That’s why getting your blood pressure checked is important.”

📅 Event Details:

Don’t miss this powerful event on February 8th.

Learn more and register today

3.
February
Seminar

February Seminar: Forging the Future – February 19, 2025

Join us for an inspiring session showcasing the innovative work of three Forge AHEAD scholars (Schneider-Worthington, Kinsey, & Caldwell) as they present updates on their pilot projects. With the theme “Forging the Future”, this seminar highlights the groundbreaking research of early investigators who are paving the way for advancements in cardiometabolic health and health equity.

4.
Birmingham
Heart Walk

2025 Birmingham Heart Walk – March 8, 2025

We’re stepping up for heart health at the Birmingham Heart Walk on March 8th! Gather your family and friends to join our team, Forge A-HEART, and help raise funds for the American Heart Association.

👣 How to Get Involved:

Every step matters, and every dollar counts.

Event details, team sign-ups, and more

Let’s make a difference together! ❤️🚶‍♀️

5.
Heart Health
Resources

Eat Healthy and Get Moving

Check out these expert-backed resources from the American Heart Association (AHA):

💡 Let’s Take Action!

From wearing red to attending events, joining walks, or exploring heart health tips, there’s something for everyone. Together, we’re forging a path toward equity and wellness.

Stay engaged, stay informed, and let’s make February a month of impact. 💪✨

From WNBA Dreams to Changing Lives: On A Mission to Promote Physical Activity

As a child, Amber W. Kinsey, Ph.D., dreamed of playing professional basketball in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). While her path led her elsewhere, her passion for sports ignited a lifelong mission to transform lives through physical activity and exercise.

Kinsey at a Las Vegas Aces WNBA game.

Now an assistant professor in the Division of Preventive Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Kinsey focuses her research on optimizing lifestyle interventions for cardiometabolic health among priority populations. Kinsey defines priority populations as “groups that are experiencing health disparities, underrepresented in research, and/or experiencing worse outcomes in response to interventions.”

At a recent UAB Preventive Medicine Grand Rounds presentation, Kinsey shared strategies for promoting physical activity among these populations. Her mission: To use physical activity and exercise as tools to empower others.

Amber W. Kinsey, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Division of Preventive Medicine, UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Learn more about Kinsey.

What are Priority Populations?

Kinsey defines priority populations as “groups that are experiencing health disparities, underrepresented in research, and/or experiencing worse outcomes in response to interventions”.

“Not everyone has access to physical activity opportunities. We must consider the broader context – where people live, work, play, and other factors beyond one’s control – to understand what contributes to an active lifestyle.”

Understanding the Bigger Picture

“Not everyone has access to physical activity opportunities,” Kinsey said. “We must consider the broader context – where people live, work, play, and other factors beyond one’s control – to understand what contributes to an active lifestyle.”

While acknowledging the importance of addressing root causes of inactivity, Kinsey emphasizes that “to truly change health statistics, we need to focus on changing behaviors.”

Learning from Success Models

“In every community, there are some individuals who manage to maintain good health practices despite challenging circumstances,” Kinsey said. “Learning more about their strategies for success and using that information to develop programs may allow us to better help others facing similar challenges.” Some of her work on this topic can be found here.

Exercise Snacks

One of Kinsey’s creative strategies involves “exercise snacks” – brief bursts of activity lasting up to five minutes. These can include taking the stairs, doing jumping jacks, or performing bodyweight squats.

“Finding opportunities to move throughout the day is a great way to be more active,” Kinsey said. “While this concept isn’t new, framing it as ‘exercise snacks’ makes it fun and digestible – pun intended!”

A Gateway to Accessible Exercise

Kinsey is also reimagining traditional approaches to physical activity promotion. “For some health outcomes, consistent resistance training twice a week can be as effective as three to five days of aerobic exercise,” she noted. She goes on to say that “resistance training may be a good first step to getting people active”. “Some data suggests that priority populations prefer resistance training over cardio and may even experience better outcomes with resistance training for some health measures”, said Kinsey.

Her two Forge AHEAD Center projects aim to make resistance training more accessible for priority populations.

Meeting People Where They Are

Kinsey’s work spans exercise science, behavioral medicine, and public health research. “We know physical activity and exercise are effective for improving health and wellbeing,” she said. “We need to figure out effective ways to help people stay active in ways that fit their unique lifestyle and circumstances.”

While she may not be competing in the WNBA, Kinsey is undoubtedly making significant strides towards improving public health, one exercise snack at a time.

Learn more about both of Kinsey’s Forge AHEAD Projects, OVERCOME-IT and an integrated cardiometabolic intervention, as well as her other research at UAB.

Kinsey’s Forge AHEAD Projects:

“For some health outcomes, consistent resistance training twice a week can be as effective as three to five days of aerobic exercise,”

What are Exercise Snacks?

Kinsey defines exercise snacks as brief bursts of physical activity lasting up to five minutes that can be incorporated throughout the day.

Kinsey putting up some shots after completing her resistance training workout at the gym.

Xie Aims to Bridge Gap Between Science and Community Health

In a region grappling with persistent health disparities, Rongbing Xie, DrPH, MPH, a scholar at the Forge AHEAD Center, is working to bring academic studies closer to the communities they aim to serve. Xie recently participated in the 2024 Community Engaged Research Summer Institute, hosted by the Mississippi Center for Clinical and Translational Research (MCCTR) at the University of Southern Mississippi, designed to enhance community engagement in health research.

The institute provided Xie with new perspectives on conducting impactful research.

From Academia to Action

Xie anticipates her experience and skills gained through the Summer Institute will significantly influence her current research. Specifically, she will be able to “develop more effective strategies for recruiting and retaining participants, particularly among underserved populations.”

At the institute, Xie and her fellow scholars engaged in hands-on community research practices. She plans to incorporate these strategies into her future work, including focus groups and community advisory boards.

“I plan to adopt the comprehensive community engagement strategies learned during the institute to ensure that community voices are heard and incorporated at every stage of my research projects,” she explained. “This includes conducting focus groups, community advisory boards and regular feedback sessions.”

The Power of Mentorship

Xie’s experience was enriched by mentorship from experts like Forge AHEAD Community Engagement Core lead Caroline Compretta, Ph.D.

“Working with Dr. Caroline Compretta during the MCCTR Summer Institute has been an eye-opening experience,” Xie said. “Her expertise in community engagement and outreach has significantly influenced my approach to involving communities in my research.”

This mentorship reinforced for Xie the importance of community partnerships in research.

Rongbing Xie, DrPh, MPH

Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery, UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Learn more about Xie.

“The most valuable lesson I took away from the institute is the critical importance of integrating community perspectives into every phase of the research process.”

A Lesson for Life

As the institute drew to a close, Xie carried with her a profound realization: the community isn’t just the subject of research – they’re partners in the journey to better health.

“The most valuable lesson I took away from the institute is the critical importance of integrating community perspectives into every phase of the research process,” she explains. “This approach not only enhances the relevance and impact of the research but also fosters trust and cooperation between researchers and community members.”

Why This Matters

Xie’s experience at the Summer Institute has implications far beyond her individual research. The health challenges she’s addressing – obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure – affect communities across America, with some groups disproportionately impacted.

By fostering stronger connections between researchers and communities, initiatives like the MCCTR Summer Institute aim to create more effective, culturally sensitive interventions. This approach could lead to improved health outcomes and a reduction in long-standing health inequities.

A Call to Action

Xie’s journey highlights the need for collaboration between researchers, community leaders, and citizens in tackling public health challenges. As she returns to her work with her Forge AHEAD projects, her experience serves as a reminder of the potential for academic research to drive meaningful change when rooted in community engagement.

Xie’s Forge AHEAD Projects:

What is Community-Based Participatory Research?

Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) is a collaborative approach that combines knowledge and action to improve community health and reduce disparities.

Key Features:

Equal Partnership: Community members and researchers share power and responsibility throughout the research process.
Cultural Relevance: Methods and interventions are tailored to fit the cultural context of the community.
Community Focused: Research addresses issues important to the community.
Empowerment: Builds on community strengths and resources.
Action and Change: Uses results to promote social change and improve health.
Sustainability: Aims for long-term benefits and lasting relationships.

CBPR makes research more ethical, relevant, and beneficial by actively involving communities and addressing their specific needs.

For more information, refer to the article “Community-based Participatory Research (CBPR): Towards Equitable Involvement of Community in Psychology Research” published in American Psychologist.

2024 Community Engaged Research Summer Institute Participants

Xie presenting one of her Forge AHEAD projects at the Summer Institute