Tag: Forge AHEAD Center

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

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

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.

 

Xie headshot

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”

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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”

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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

Locher emphasizes inclusive language in scientific research

Locher emphasizes inclusive language in scientific research

“Language is the primary way we convey meaning and culture,” said Julie Locher, Ph.D., professor emerita at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as she opened the Forge AHEAD seminar on the power of language in scientific communication in November at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Locher emphasized the responsibility of researchers to communicate with accuracy and respect, highlighting how word choice in research can shape relationships with communities and influence research outcomes. “When we use language that resonates and respects,” she added, “we open doors to trust and engagement that can transform the impact of our work.”

The seminar “Words Matter: Effective and Appropriate Scientific Communication” focused on practical strategies for using inclusive and respectful terminology, particularly in studies involving diverse communities.

A leading sociologist in health communication, Locher urged the audience to avoid outdated, problematic, or offensive terms, offering guidance on fostering cultural humility throughout the research process. “I approach every interaction with the assumption that no one intends to do harm,” Locher remarked, “but by becoming aware, we can choose words that respect and uplift others.”

Key takeaways included:

  • Person-first language: Locher advocated for using language that acknowledges people as individuals rather than defining them by their health conditions. For instance, instead of “diabetics,” researchers should refer to “people living with diabetes.” This shift reduces stigma and emphasizes the person over the condition.
  • Cultural humility: Locher described cultural humility as a “a lifelong process of self-reflection and self-critique”, adding that it helps mitigate bias. She encouraged researchers to reflect on their beliefs and assumptions, which can inadvertently influence their views of study populations. “Cultural humility isn’t something we check off a list; it’s a lifelong journey of understanding our own biases and assumptions so that we can meet others where they are.”

“Language is the primary way we convey meaning and culture.”

Locher emphasized the vital role of language in scientific research, stressing that using inclusive and respectful terminology fosters trust, strengthens community engagement, and ultimately enhances the impact of research.

  • Considerate demographic terminology: Locher emphasized the importance of using precise terms when describing diverse populations, noting, “The term ‘minority’ often generalizes experiences and can obscure individual identities. We should avoid broad terms like ‘minorities’ and instead be specific, referring directly to the racial or ethnic groups relevant to our studies.” This approach, she explained, “preserves distinctions and respects the diversity within each community.”
  • Inclusive descriptions for disability and socioeconomic status: In discussing language around disabilities and socioeconomic status, Locher stated, “Using phrases like ‘wheelchair-bound’ or ‘the homeless’ can unintentionally define individuals by their challenges rather than their humanity.” She recommended alternatives, such as “individuals who use a wheelchair” and “people without housing,” which emphasize personhood and avoid stigmatization. She reminded the audience, “Our choice of words should uplift and respect, not reduce people to their circumstances or needs.”

 

What is "person-first language"?

“Person-first language” emphasizes referring to individuals as people first, rather than defining them by their health conditions. By using phrases like “people living with diabetes” instead of “diabetics,” researchers reduce stigma and focus on the person rather than the condition.

 

Locher concluded her presentation by encouraging scientists to see language as an evolving tool. “Words that are appropriate today may not be tomorrow,” she said, advocating for continuous learning and adaptation. She also shared resources for scientists wanting to stay updated on recommended language, including guidance from the National Institutes of Health and major health organizations.

The Forge AHEAD Center thanks Dr. Locher for thoughtfully equipping researchers with tools to communicate in ways that respect and accurately represent all individuals. Her seminar reinforces the importance of language in building trust, improving engagement, and advancing health equity across diverse populations.

For more on upcoming Forge AHEAD events and resources, visit our website. You can also watch the seminar recording here.

Feeding Hope: How One Researcher is Transforming Lives in the South

Feeding Hope: How One Researcher is Transforming Lives in the South

When Christopher Long, Ph.D., steps up to the microphone at the Forge AHEAD Center seminar, there’s a quiet urgency in his voice. It’s the conviction of someone who’s spent years researching how food impacts health outcomes and development of chronic diseases with a focus on the people living in the Southern U.S.

For Long, a principal research scientist at the Center for Nutrition and Health Impact, this lecture goes beyond presenting information. It’s a call to action — one grounded in a simple yet powerful idea: food is more than just something to eat; it’s medicine. Real medicine.

“I’m a psychologist,” he begins with a grin, his tone light. “Why the heck is a psychologist talking about food as medicine?”

It’s an unexpected opening, and Long knows it. Behind his friendly approach lies a more serious message: people in the South are dying — years earlier than they should be. The problem isn’t only about lacking healthcare; it’s about limited access to the food they need to survive.

A Personal Mission

Long’s journey didn’t begin in a lab or a hospital. It began in the early hours, and often out the door lines, where community members were waiting for the food pantry to open. Back in 2015, he found himself in food pantries across Arkansas, clipboard in hand, evaluating the quality of the food people were receiving. Through his work, Long realized the food itself was just one piece of a much bigger problem.

These were people whose needs weren’t being met by the overwhelmed healthcare system, people for whom a single bag of food might be all they had for days.

Long could see the cycle — poverty, illness, hunger — and he knew something had to change. Instead of simply treating patients, he wondered: why not feed them too?

From Local Roots to National Impact 

“Walmart will bring groceries to my front porch,” Long says with a laugh, recalling the idea that sparked his research. “What if we started bringing groceries to food-insecure households? Not very creative, but people wanted to fund that research.”

“The problem isn’t only about lacking healthcare; it’s about lacking access to the food they need to survive.”

Dr. Long emphasizes that access to healthy food is as crucial as access to medical care, especially in food deserts where fresh produce is scarce.

For six years, Long’s team studied the impact of delivering groceries paired with disease-management education. The results spoke for themselves. People welcomed the food, grateful to avoid food pantry lines, and, more importantly, they began managing their chronic conditions better.

By 2023, Long had established himself as a leader in Arkansas. But as the national Food is Medicine movement began picking up steam, he saw an opportunity to contribute on a larger scale. Across the country, healthcare systems and food programs were partnering to deliver healthy food to those who needed it most.

What is "Food Is Medicine"?

“Food is Medicine” refers to the idea that healthy food can be used as a tool to prevent, manage, and treat chronic conditions. It connects healthcare providers and food systems to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Source

 

“This thing is really taking off,” Long recalls thinking. “There are national opportunities to change how we connect healthcare and communities with food systems.”

In 2023, Long joined the Center for Nutrition and Health Impact. His work now focuses on evaluating partnerships between food and healthcare systems at every level — local, regional, and national — to better serve food-insecure populations.

“I spend five days a week, 40 hours a week, talking to folks about partnerships between food systems and healthcare systems like clinics, hospitals, and even Medicaid and insurance payers,” Long says. “How can we understand the effectiveness of these partnerships? That’s what I do every day.”

For the families he works with, these partnerships are a lifeline. But for Long, they’re much more — they’re a way to chip away at the deep-rooted disparities that have plagued the Southern U.S. for too long.

Food, Poverty, and Disparity in the South

The numbers are staggering. In Mississippi, nearly one in five households is food insecure. Louisiana, Arkansas, and Alabama are close behind. These states also lead the nation in obesity, diabetes, and heart disease rates.

“We are dying faster,” Long says bluntly, his tone shifting with urgency. “You live in Mississippi? You should expect to live ten years less than someone in Hawaii.”

The statistics are chilling, but they’re not what drives Long. It’s the faces behind the numbers — the mothers stretching a bag of food across three days, elderly patients splitting medication costs with groceries, children eating whatever their parents can find.

And it’s not just about hunger. Food insecurity in the South is intricately tied to race and socioeconomic status. Black and Hispanic communities are hit hardest, living in neighborhoods where fresh produce is scarce and affordable groceries are a luxury. These “food deserts” become breeding grounds for chronic diseases, creating a cycle that’s tough to break.

“Food is Medicine directly addresses two of these systems,” Long says, pointing to healthcare and food access. “The reason why our states and our neighbors are facing these disparities in food insecurity and lifespan — it’s rooted in our neighborhoods, our communities.”

A Movement for Change

Long knows that solving these issues will take more than just one person or program. But he believes that the South, with its strong sense of community, can rise to the challenge. He points to the faith-based organizations, small businesses, and agricultural communities already stepping up, working alongside him to build local food systems and distribute healthy meals.

“It’s not easy,” Long admits. “But it’s necessary. Our communities have the heart. They have the passion. They just need the support.”

The fight is long, but the wins are already coming. Data from his programs show that those receiving medically tailored meals and groceries are eating better and managing their diseases more effectively. Fewer hospital readmissions, fewer emergency room visits, better control of chronic conditions. The evidence is building, catching the attention of policymakers and healthcare providers alike.

“In Mississippi, nearly one in five households is food insecure.”

Southern states face some of the highest rates of food insecurity and chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

Source

 

“We are dying faster. You live in Mississippi? You should expect to live ten years less than someone in Hawaii.”

Source

But for Long, the real victory will come when programs like his are no longer needed — when food insecurity is no longer part of life in the South.

The Why Behind the Work

As Long finishes his presentation, he scans the room one last time. The weight of the situation is clear to everyone listening. He knows that Food is Medicine is more than a project or a catchy slogan. It’s a lifeline for millions of people in the South, trapped in a web of poverty, illness, and hunger.

“I’m trying to sell you on doing this research,” he says, his voice softening. “But really, I’m trying to show you the power of what we can do together.”

For Long, this work is all about people. It’s about dignity. It’s about giving people the most basic of human rights — the right to eat, the right to live.

Because in the end, food isn’t just food. It’s medicine. And in the South, it might just be the most powerful medicine of all.

View the recording of the September seminar here.

Forge AHEAD Center Announces Fourth Cohort of Scholars Focused on HIV

Forge AHEAD Center Announces Fourth Cohort of Scholars Focused on HIV

The Forge AHEAD Center (FAC) is delighted to introduce the recipients of its pilot funding for the fourth cohort, with a specific focus on HIV prevention and management in the Deep South.

These four early-stage investigators were selected for their groundbreaking research aimed at addressing critical public health issues related to HIV.

Their work aligns perfectly with the Forge AHEAD Center’s mission of reducing health disparities and fostering healthier communities through innovative research endeavors.

Introducing the Fourth Cohort Scholars

We are honored to recognize the following outstanding researchers, whose projects all center around improving health outcomes for people living with HIV:

Kristen Allen-Watts, Ph.D. headshot

Kristen Allen-Watts, Ph.D.
Assistant professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham

Project: “Peer MODELS: (Managing a Community-based HIV, Diabetes, and pain intervention that Encourages healthy Living and provides Support), for PWH and T2D in the setting of chronic pain”

Headshot of Dr. Donald Gerke

Donny Gerke, Ph.D.
Assistant professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham

Project: “Facilitated Stable Housing as a Strategy for Uptake and Sustainment of Evidence-Based HIV and Cardiometabolic Medicine in People with HIV”

Headshot of Gravett

Matt Gravett, M.D.
Assistant professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham

Project: “Laying the Foundation for PrEP in Urgent Care Settings”

Xie headshot

Rongbing Xie, DrPH
Assistant professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham

Project: “Enhancing Recruitment and Retention for Black Females with HIV: Identifying Barriers, Facilitators, and the Role of Social Determinants for the Willingness to Participate in the HEALTH Study”

Empowering Scholarly Success

The Forge AHEAD Center is committed to fostering a supportive environment for our scholars. Each recipient will receive both strategic guidance and mentorship throughout their research journey. This comprehensive approach empowers them to translate their visions into impactful research that holds the potential to make a significant contribution to reducing HIV-related health disparities across the Deep South.

Investing in the Future of HIV/AIDS Health

By funding these groundbreaking projects, the Forge AHEAD Center demonstrates its unwavering dedication to advancing health equity and improving the well-being of individuals living with HIV across the South. We are confident that the work of our fourth cohort will have a lasting positive impact on our communities.

Stay Connected!

For more details about the scholars and their research endeavors, please visit this page. We are actively seeking talented investigators for upcoming funding cycles. Early-stage investigators interested in applying for pilot awards are encouraged to visit our website for application guidelines and deadlines. The RFA for Cohort 5 is currently open, with Letters of Intent due on June 25, 2024.

Katie Ellison’s Journey: Triumph, Mentorship, and the George Bray Obesity Research Award

Katie Ellison’s Journey: Triumph, Mentorship, and the George Bray Obesity Research Award

Katie M. Ellison, M.S., a doctoral student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), is on a remarkable journey that blends personal struggles with professional triumphs. This journey will soon be celebrated on the grand stage of the Nutrition 2024 conference in Chicago, IL, where she will receive the prestigious George Bray Obesity Research Student Award.

This award not only recognizes her groundbreaking work but also underscores the vital mentorship of FAC Core Project Principal Investigator Drew Sayer, Ph.D., whose guidance has been essential in her journey.

The Mentor’s Influence

Ellison speaks about the profound impact Sayer has had on her career. “Dr. Sayer has significantly shaped my approach to research and my professional growth,” she shared. “One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from him is the importance of perseverance and curiosity in scientific research.” Sayer, who found his passion for public health early on, said, “Even during my undergraduate years, I was more drawn to the public health implications of healthy eating and physical activity than just sports performance. Obesity research felt like a natural fit.”

Ellison’s enthusiasm and commitment have been evident from the start. “Katie has that ‘it factor’ that’s hard to describe but easy to recognize. Her enthusiasm for this work is infectious, and her genuine desire to improve lives brings a unique perspective,” Sayer noted.

Katie Ellison (right) with her mentor Drew Sayer, Ph.D. (second from right), and colleagues at a research presentation.

A Personal Motivation

Ellison’s passion for obesity research is deeply personal, stemming from her own battles with weight. “I was inspired to pursue a career in nutrition sciences and obesity research because of my personal journey with weight loss and the challenges I faced,” she explained. “I have seen firsthand the profound impact that obesity can have on individuals and their families. This experience has fueled my determination to help others overcome similar struggles.”

Did You Know?

Dr. George Bray was the founding Executive Director of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, a Forge AHEAD partner institution, and is internationally recognized for his research in obesity. The George Bray Obesity Research Student Award, endowed by Dr. Bray and his wife Marilyn, continues to honor his legacy by recognizing outstanding student research in obesity.

Award and Research Focus

Receiving the George Bray Obesity Research Student Award is a pivotal milestone for Ellison. “I was incredibly honored and excited to learn that I was receiving the George Bray Obesity Research Student Award. I believe my research stood out because it addresses a critical gap in understanding the behavioral aspects of obesity,” Ellison said.

Her work aims to uncover strategies that can improve health outcomes for individuals struggling with obesity. “My research aims to understand how specific behavioral strategies can improve weight loss outcomes and overall health in individuals with obesity. My own journey taught me the importance of sustainable lifestyle changes, and I hope this work will contribute to more effective treatment protocols for obesity,” she elaborated. Her work is not just about data; it’s about changing lives.

 

Sayer highlighted the significance of this achievement, saying, “George Bray is a pioneer in obesity research and receiving an award bearing his name is a tremendous accomplishment for Katie and a testament to the quality of her work. There is a lot of interest in the concept of ‘precision nutrition’ in obesity research treatment. I hope that this award signals a growing interest and emphasis on innovative experimental designs that can bridge the translational gap between traditional clinical research and the delivery of adaptive and personalized care to people living with obesity.”

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Ellison has clear goals. “Following this award, my aspirations are to further explore innovative behavioral interventions that can be integrated into clinical practice. I plan to build on my current research to develop comprehensive treatment strategies that address the multifaceted nature of obesity.” Her vision is one of a healthier future for all, where effective treatment strategies can lead to lasting health improvements.

Ellison’s recognition with the George Bray Obesity Research Student Award is a testament to her perseverance, the mentorship she received, and her dedication to making a difference. Her work, guided by Sayer, exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and innovation at Forge AHEAD. As Ellison continues her journey, her contributions are set to shape the future of obesity treatment, offering hope and better health outcomes.

Katie Ellison’s story is one of courage, determination, and the transformative power of mentorship. It highlights the importance of resilience, curiosity, and the incredible impact of one person’s dedication.

“Dr. Sayer has significantly influenced my approach to research and my professional development. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from him is the importance of perseverance and curiosity in scientific research.” – Katie Ellison

Addressing racism in cardiometabolic health research

Addressing racism in cardiometabolic health research

Pennington Biomedical Research Center hosted Michele Allen, M.D., and Kene Orakwue, MPH for the Forge AHEAD April seminar where they presented on their innovative approaches to combatting health disparities, building on a framework that acknowledges the deep impact that racism has on health outcomes.

Allen, associate professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School and MPI for the C2DREAM Center, provided an in-depth overview of the center’s objectives and methods, emphasizing their proactive stance against racism in health research.

She noted, “We are striving to advance this field… We have significant partnerships with indigenous groups, reflecting our commitment to anti-colonial perspectives and the parallels among indigenous, Black, and immigrant communities.” This underscores the center’s dedication to inclusivity and diversity in health research, acknowledging various dimensions of racism and colonial impacts.

Allen further emphasized the critical need for incorporating a framework that considers racism in health research, stating, “To dismantle racism, we must understand how it functions and manifests, not only within communities but also within our research endeavors.

It is essential for health equity researchers to consider racism both as a social determinant of health and in how it influences our research methodologies.” This serves as a crucial reminder of the systemic nature of racism and its extensive impact on health disparities.

Structural racism and its impact on health outcomes

Orakwue, doctoral student at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, enhanced the dialogue by introducing a detailed framework demonstrating how structural racism affects health outcomes. Orakwue stressed the need for a structural analysis of racism, stating, “It’s crucial to consider racism at a structural level, as health inequities often emerge not just from momentary snapshots but from longstanding systemic issues.” This insight is vital for understanding the prolonged and systemic nature of health disparities driven by racism.

Orakwue also highlighted the complexity of racism, adding, “Racism manifests in various forms; it upholds white supremacy and different oppressive systems, depending on the targeted population… How do we start to address these multifaceted issues?” Her discussion points to the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle racism effectively.

Concluding insights

In her concluding remarks, Allen emphasized the significance of these discussions and frameworks in progressing the battle against health disparities. She affirmed, “This work is foundational to our operations and essential for our continuous efforts to effectively address racial inequities in health. We must persistently refine our understanding and methodologies to ensure our research and interventions are both effective and equitable.”

Facilitating ongoing dialogues on health inequity

These insights from C2DREAM resonate deeply with Forge AHEAD’s mission to challenge health inequities through informed and inclusive research methodologies. By sharing and deliberating on these strategies, Forge AHEAD seeks to deepen the community’s understanding of and engagement with these critical issues.

Engage and discover more

Forge AHEAD invites the community to participate in the upcoming fall seminar series, designed to further explore these and similar themes. This series provides a platform for community members, researchers, and policymakers to actively engage with the challenges and progress in addressing health disparities influenced by systemic racism. We also encourage viewing the recap of our seminar presentations to gain additional insights into how these discussions are evolving and influencing our approach to health equity.

Forge AHEAD is dedicated not only to discussing these issues but also to implementing practical and impactful strategies that address them at the systemic level, ensuring a healthier future for all communities. Join us in this pivotal conversation and be part of the change.

View the recording of the May seminar below:

Our Scholars’ stories: Lai tests virtual reality gaming exercise benefits at a local high school for youth with disabilities

Lai tests virtual reality gaming exercise benefits at a local high school for youth with disabilities

Byron Lai, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, is researching a new way to help children with disabilities stay healthy.

Lai’s project, “Preliminary implementation and development of an enjoyable virtual reality exercise program for the prevention of cardiometabolic disease among children with disabilities in school settings,” allows participants to do their rehabilitation exercises through video games.

The goal is to see if virtual reality gaming and exercise can help children with disabilities avoid health problems related to their heart and metabolism.

Video games that improve health

“The purpose of the project is to work with a community engagement group to develop a protocol for implementing a research-tested therapeutic exercise program for youth with disabilities at a high school,” says Lai.

Lai is testing this exercise program in a special physical education class at a high school. He wants to see what impacts the program has on exercise-related outcomes like physical strength and how well the heart and lungs work.

A total of 12 children will be included in the study to start. This project will include a Community Engagement Group of three members from the school where the intervention will be delivered, a child with cerebral palsy, their caregiver, and a Special Physical Education teacher.

“The project is being supported by school staff and, most importantly, being delivered by a young man with a physical and cognitive disability, who was a student at the high school,” says Lai.

“Should this project be successful, it could open up a means for employment for youth with disabilities, when the project is delivered on a national scale. This project is also the first collaborative project with the community by the Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine at UAB and Children’s Hospital of Alabama, which could open doors for further projects and services.”

Lai says the group will meet regularly to talk about how the program is delivered and what changes might be needed.

If this study shows the exercise program works well, Lai will use the study results to apply for additional funding to conduct a larger study to confirm if it really helps kids with disabilities stay healthy. “This project will serve as a model for helping other schools in a larger trial,” he says.

The findings of this study will inform an upcoming NIHR01 application to confirm the effectiveness of the virtual reality exercise program on cardiometabolic health among children with physical disabilities.

Our Scholars’ stories: Cardozo explores the link between PCOS and cardiovascular disease

Cardozo explores the link between PCOS and cardiovascular disease

Licy Yanes Cardozo, M.D., associate professor at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, is delving into the interesting connection between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and cardiovascular disease.

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by high levels of male hormones and irregular menstrual cycles.

While the exact cause of PCOS remains unknown, it’s evident that women with this condition face an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women in the U.S.

Notably, Black/African American women with PCOS are at an even higher risk of cardiovascular complications, though the reasons for this racial disparity are not fully understood. Social determinants of health (SDoH), such as education, employment, income, and food security, could play a significant role.

Cardozo’s why

“Women’s health suffers from numerous inequities, especially in the South,” Cardozo says. “As a woman and a mother of two girls, I am passionate about using my voice, knowledge, and energy to improve cardiovascular health among women.”

Moreover, Cardozo states: “cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death among women, thereby this is a key area of research. I hope that the findings of our research make a positive impact on the community, filling the multiple gaps that exist in our understanding of cardiovascular diseases in women, especially among African Americans.”

The project plan

Cardozo’s team aims to investigate how SDoH contribute to cardiovascular risk factors in Black/African American women compared to white women with PCOS, and how this correlates with hormonal imbalances and dysregulation of factors affecting blood pressure and metabolism.

As a physician-scientist, Cardozo says she seeks to determine whether SDoH are responsible for the elevated cardiovascular risk observed in Black/African American women with PCOS.

Her study will utilize questionnaires to assess SDoH, analyze blood samples related to cardiovascular disease, and examine obesity as a contributing factor.

The findings from this research endeavor are expected to provide deeper insights into effective treatments for managing cardiovascular disease in Black women with PCOS.

Cardozo anticipates that this study will lead to improved strategies for addressing cardiovascular issues in women, particularly among those who face disproportionate risks, such as Black/African American women with PCOS.