University of Cincinnati
10/30/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/30/2025 08:13
New mentorship program connects UC public health students, alumni
New mentorship program connects UC public health students, alumni
Initiative builds career connections, expands hands-on learning opportunities
By Megan Burgasser Email MeganEmail Megan
5 minute read October 30, 2025 Share on facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share on Reddit Print StoryLike
When Martin Ogbebor started the University of Cincinnati's Master of Public Health (MPH) program, he knew he didn't want to navigate it alone. As the first in his family and the only one of his friends to pursue an MPH degree at UC, he knew he needed extra guidance and support.
So he applied to join the new UC MPH Alumni-Student Mentorship Program, launched this academic year through the College of Medicine's Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences.
"My early undergraduate years were difficult for similar reasons," said Ogbebor, a graduate of UC's Marian Spencer Scholarship Program. "I hoped the program would give me clarity, direction and someone reliable to lean on when needed."
Natasha Rodriguez and Martin Ogbebor. Photo/Natasha Rodriguez.
Based on his application, Ogbebor was paired with Natasha Rodriguez, a 2022 MPH graduate who now works as project manager of the Storytelling for Health Advocacy, Research and Education (SHARE) Laboratory in UC's College of Nursing. Their connection was instant.
"After meeting Natasha, I immediately felt reassured and knew I had found someone who could guide me through this new chapter," said Ogbebor.
Rodriguez said she had an exceptional experience during her time in the MPH program and is grateful for the connections she built. She was excited to reconnect with the program and volunteer as a mentor. "It has been amazing to support my mentee, Martin, and also learn from current students' perspectives," she said. "I look forward to what the rest of this year has to offer for all of us."
Through the program, students receive academic and career guidance, explore different public health sectors and begin networking in the field. Alumni mentors, in turn, can share their experiences, support workforce development and collaborate with students on public health projects.
The program's roots
Michelle Burbage, PhD, created the mentorship program. Burbage is an associate professor who directs the MPH program and a three-time UC graduate.
"At UC, I found a family and community and a sense of belonging," she said. "I had a wonderful experience with mentors who helped shape my own career trajectory."
The idea for the program came naturally. "With so many of our MPH alumni achieving great success in the public health field, fostering meaningful connections between them and current students can yield great benefits," she said.
Current cohort
The first cohort includes eight current MPH students paired with eight UC alumni. The program began earlier this semester with a reception and induction event.
One student, Gabrielle Kroger, now plans to conduct mental health research alongside her mentor, Christy Klein, PhD, a 2015 MPH graduate and research assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience.
Kelli Williams, MD, and Wei-Chuan Hsu. Photo/Kelli Williams.
"I truly enjoy mentoring emerging public health professionals," said Klein. "I hope to inspire a passion for improving health outcomes for all and to show that research is one powerful way to achieve that."
Another mentor, Kelli Williams, MD, a 2020 MPH graduate, associate professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, and associate medical director of infection prevention at UC Health, said she joined the program to strengthen connections between UC Health and the MPH program.
"I wanted to give students more hands-on experience in the exciting world of hospital epidemiology and infection prevention and control," said Williams, who has been paired with MPH student Wei-Chuan Hsu.
Looking ahead
Burbage plans to make the mentorship program an annual initiative. Applications from students and alumni will open each spring, with selections made during the summer and the program beginning each fall.
Pairs are expected to meet for an hour at least once per month, either in person or virtually, to engage in meaningful conversations. An end-of-year reception is planned to allow participants to reflect on the program's impact and celebrate their achievements.
Bearcats for Life
Join us as we redefine what it means to be a Bearcat - where every learner is supported, valued and equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. It's our promise. Bearcats for Life
Featured image at top: Students and mentors in the UC MPH Alumni-Student Mentorship Program. Photo/Michelle Burbage.
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- Faculty Staff
- College of Medicine
- Public Health
- Student Experience
- Academic Health Center
- Health
- Research
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