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Neela Persad
Health Department Liaison Officer at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Professional Background
Neela Persad is a dedicated public health professional with extensive experience in health policy, program development, and emergency response management. Currently serving as the Health Department Liaison Officer at the esteemed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Neela plays a vital role in ensuring effective communication and collaboration between health departments at various levels. Her current position leverages her deep understanding of public health dynamics and her ability to navigate complex organizational structures, which she honed throughout her diverse career in health services.
Before her role at the CDC, Neela contributed significantly to New York City's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. As a Special Assistant to Operations Support Lead at the NYC Test & Trace Corps, she was instrumental in developing and implementing strategies that bolstered the city’s testing and contact tracing efforts. Her previous responsibilities also include serving as a Desk Officer on the COVID-19 Emergency Response, where she provided crucial guidance on school and childcare operations during this unprecedented time. Neela's versatility and problem-solving skills have been evident throughout her career, allowing her to make impactful contributions in various capacities within the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
Neela began her career in public health as a Policy, Strategy, and Development Intern at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, where she laid the foundation for her expertise in health policy and strategic planning. Her journey continued with roles focused on overdose prevention initiatives, where she served as a Technical Assistance Specialist, showcasing her commitment to addressing critical public health challenges through data-driven solutions.
In addition to her experience within governmental organizations, Neela's early career includes significant contributions to UNICEF as a Knowledge Management, Advocacy, and Communications Intern. These opportunities equipped her with a global perspective on health challenges and enhanced her skills in advocacy and communication—key components in the realm of public health education and policy reform.
Education and Achievements
Neela Persad obtained her Bachelor’s Degree from the esteemed University of Miami, where she began to cultivate her passion for public health and its influence on individual and community well-being. Her educational journey continued with a Master’s Degree from the prestigious Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. Here, she gained advanced knowledge in public health practices, research methodologies, and health policy, which have proven invaluable in her professional endeavors.
Neela's educational background, combined with her proactive engagement in public health projects during her studies, illustrates her commitment to making a significant impact in the field. Her coursework and projects focused on critical issues such as epidemiology, health policy analysis, and community health interventions, preparing her for the multifaceted challenges in public health.
Achievements
Throughout her impressive career, Neela has achieved several milestones that highlight her contributions to public health:
- Successfully supported the implementation of COVID-19 response initiatives in New York City, demonstrating strong leadership and rapid response abilities during a public health crisis.
- Played a key role in the development of policies and operational strategies during her tenure with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which facilitated better outcomes for vulnerable populations.
- Contributed to UNICEF's mission towards global health improvement through effective communications and advocacy work, enhancing awareness and facilitating action on critical health issues.
- Maintained an unwavering commitment to professional development, continually seeking opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills in public health, evidenced by her varied internship experiences during her academic years.
In conclusion, Neela Persad epitomizes the modern public health advocate. With her range of experience and educational prowess, she stands as a pillar of support and ingenuity in the fight against health disparities. Her work across various esteemed organizations showcases her dedication and versatility in tackling the dynamic challenges presented in the public health domain. As Neela continues to advance her career, her commitment to promoting health equity and improving community well-being remains at the forefront of her professional journey.