New Des Moines University Director of Global Health Brings a Passion for Equity and Education

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences welcomes Keyah Levy, Ed.D., M.A., B.A., as the new director of global health. With a distinguished background in community health, diversity, equity and student advocacy, Levy is poised to advance DMU's mission of improving global health education and training future health care leaders.

Levy, who previously served as vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion at Simpson College, is eager to meet DMU's future health care providers and help them engage in global health initiatives. "I have always been committed to equity, generally and specifically, as it relates to health outcomes and mitigating disparities," Levy says. "By exposing students to a variety of global health practices, they will gain new knowledge while serving communities in need."

Levy's journey has been marked by a deep commitment to community health and an ability to create impactful diversity, equity and inclusion-focused programs.

"I have been fortunate to learn from my community engagement and global travel," Levy says. "The focus on diversity, equity and inclusion is the cornerstone of everything I do, how I show up in the world and how I aim to support the communities I serve. My experience in community health has broadened my perspective, allowing me to create programs, services and advocate for equitable policies that empower communities locally and abroad."

In her role as director of global health, Levy has identified several key priorities. "Top priorities I hope to bring to DMU's global health initiatives include increasing program visibility, providing an understanding of social determinants of health from diverse perspectives and contributing to the development of globally conscious health care professionals," Levy says. She also firmly believes that cultural immersion is an essential aspect of health care education, giving students a greater understanding of the world.

With a doctorate in student affairs administration and leadership and a master's degree in community health education, Levy is well-prepared to integrate diverse perspectives and inclusive health practices into DMU's global health program.

DMU's global health program provides opportunities for students to complete international rotations or internships, coordinates research opportunities with organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and facilitates courses and programs to help students become globally-conscious health care providers.

For more information about Des Moines University's global health program, please visit www.dmu.edu/globalhealth.