Adena Hernandez

Senior Program Officer, Health and Early Childhood at Robin Hood

Professional Background

Adena Hernandez is a dedicated and accomplished public health professional with a robust background in community health, education, and public health research. With her Master of Public Health (MPH) degree specializing in Socio-medical Sciences from Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, Adena has honed her skills in exploring the intricate social determinants of health. Currently, she serves as a Senior Program Officer for Health and Early Childhood at Robin Hood, where she is instrumental in developing innovative health strategies aimed at enhancing the well-being of urban populations. Her experience spans various roles in the field, including previous positions at Robin Hood as a Program Officer in Health, Urban Farm Youth Education Consultant at Hell's Kitchen Farm Project, and Food Justice Instructor at the Children's Aid Society.

Adena's commitment to public health is not limited to her professional roles; she actively engages with various stakeholders to mobilize resources and create sustainable health solutions. Her expertise in urban health, food justice, and urban agriculture has positioned her as a thought leader in her field, particularly regarding community outreach and program management. With a keen focus on mental health and women's reproductive and sexual health, Adena is dedicated to improving health outcomes for marginalized communities.

Education and Achievements

Adena's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Williams College, where she laid the foundational knowledge necessary for her future endeavors in public health. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued further education with a strong focus on global health at the School for International Training, which further enriched her understanding of health inequities on an international scale.

Adena's commitment to education continued at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, where she completed her Master of Public Health degree. Here, she not only deepened her understanding of socio-medical sciences but also earned a certificate in Global Health, reinforcing her expertise in addressing health issues from a global perspective. Throughout her academic career, Adena has demonstrated a passion for learning and growth, which she has seamlessly translated into her professional life.

Notable Contributions and Specialties

Adena Hernandez's professional journey is marked by her diverse roles that mirror her specialties in program management, community outreach, and public health research. As a Senior Program Officer at Robin Hood, she has led initiatives that address health disparities in early childhood, advocating for vulnerable communities and ensuring equitable access to health resources. Her unique skill set includes both quantitative and qualitative public health research, which she employs in designing and implementing effective health programs.

Additionally, Adena's experiences as a Research Associate at prestigious institutions like UNIFESP and Columbia University have solidified her research capabilities. She has also played crucial roles in educational settings, such as her tenure as a Health Educator and Reach Out and Read Coordinator at HealthCorps, where she contributed to the growth and development of health literacy among youth.

Her dedication to food justice and urban agriculture is evident from her past position as an Urban Farm Youth Education Consultant at Hell's Kitchen Farm Project, where she worked to empower young people through education around sustainable farming and healthy eating practices. Her ability to engage and mobilize diverse stakeholders is critical in her efforts to foster community-driven health initiatives.

Contributions to Public Health Policy

Adena's educational background in global health has influenced her approach to public health policy, particularly concerning urban health challenges. She has been actively involved in developing evidence-based strategies to improve health systems and advocate for public health policies that prioritize health equity.

Her experience in curriculum development, especially in the realms of mental health and women's reproductive health, showcases her ability to create impactful health education programs. Through these programs, she has facilitated knowledge transfer and empowered individuals to take control of their health and well-being. Adena’s contributions extend beyond her immediate work environment; she is a passionate advocate for sustainable and equitable communities, consistently working to uplift urban populations and address systemic health issues.

Conclusion

Adena Hernandez stands out as a dynamic professional in the public health sector with a strong commitment to advancing health equity and sustainable community development. Her diverse experiences, coupled with her solid educational background, position her as a valuable asset in any initiative aimed at improving public health outcomes. With a focus on urban health, food justice, and mental health, Adena continues to inspire and lead efforts that make a meaningful difference in the lives of many, exemplifying dedication to creating healthier, more equitable communities for all.