Meet our PhD Student and Alumni

I was initially drawn to the HSR PhD program at Mason because of a growing realization that, to truly impact healthcare, I needed a deeper understanding of the broader systemic challenges and how to apply evidence-based solutions to those problems. Career-wise, I wanted to ensure I’d graduate from the program with the ability to bridge the gap between research and policy. Mason's program stood out for its strong emphasis on health services research methodologies and its focus on translating findings into actionable policy recommendations. I was particularly keen to explore military adolescent mental health challenges—an area only a handful of researchers have examined—and I was fortunate to find an interdisciplinary team of faculty with expertise perfectly aligned to my interests.

My dissertation tackled the crucial subject of mental health disparities, centering on military-affiliated adolescent (MAA) mental health—a population that is often overlooked despite facing significant and distinct challenges. My journey into this topic began with a foundational exploration of the association between military environmental factors and suicidal behaviors in MAAs. This research was critically important because military adolescents navigate a complex landscape of frequent transitions, parental stressors, and potential exposure to trauma, all of which can profoundly impact their mental health. While adolescent mental health is broadly studied, the specific nuances and disparities within the military adolescent population—particularly regarding access and outcomes—are often ignored.

This naturally led me to compare the experiences of MAAs with their non-military peers, resulting in a comparative analysis of civilian and military adolescent mental health disparities. We did, in fact, find significant disparities using novel approaches. I knew it was equally vital to understand the underlying mechanisms, which led to a qualitative exploration of military-specific cultural norms, impediments and facilitators to care, and an effort to understand how beliefs, expectations, and experiences influence mental health-seeking behaviors in this population. This mixed-methods, holistic approach allowed me to move beyond identifying problems to understanding the complex interplay of factors that shape mental health and help-seeking behaviors in this unique community. Grasping these nuances was essential for developing more effective, equitable, and culturally competent mental health services that truly resonate with this population.

My time in the HSR PhD program offered many valuable lessons, but one particular experience profoundly shaped me. I was deep into the quantitative phase of my dissertation, and despite having robust data and a strong framework, I hit a wall trying to interpret some results that, on the surface, seemed contradictory. My advisor suggested stepping away, but due to my compressed timeline, I instead shifted focus to my qualitative study.

Remarkably, it was during an interview with one of my subjects that everything shifted. As she recounted her experiences, a lightbulb went off—she inadvertently provided the context and nuance I needed to understand my quantitative findings. Transcribing that interview was transformative; I immediately revisited my quantitative work, and suddenly, the intricate relationships in the data became undeniably clear.

That experience wasn’t just about solving a research problem; it was about truly grasping the immense power of methodological triangulation and seeing how qualitative insights can illuminate quantitative patterns in unexpected and profound ways. It was an incredibly affirming moment in my academic journey.

My path to my first role after graduation was a bit unique. As an active-duty military member, my next position was actually negotiated and secured prior to graduation. This allowed me to focus entirely on completing my dissertation, knowing that my professional transition was already in place.

That said, while the destination was fixed, the adaptation was intense. Once I began the role, I quickly realized that areas like research and grant funding, university service, and academic advancement operated similarly to civilian universities. To navigate this effectively, I was incredibly proactive: I asked incessant questions, unwittingly overcommitted myself at first (it all adds up FAST!), and sought out every possible experience early on. My goal was to accelerate my learning and overcome the steep learning curve as quickly as possible—and that hands-on approach certainly paid off.

I'm thrilled to share that I've been serving as an Assistant Professor for the past year, and, excitingly, was just selected to take over as the Program Director for the Master in Health Administration and Policy program—a truly humbling opportunity.

My current work is incredibly dynamic and directly leverages everything I gained from the HSR PhD program. I'm deeply involved in research, having recently secured funding for two new grants and awaiting decisions on two more—all focused on addressing real-world problems within the Military Health System. Simultaneously, my teaching load is substantial: with six classes scheduled this year, I have the opportunity to mentor the next generation of health services leaders. And, of course, I’m contributing to the university through various service roles.

The most rewarding moments, however, have been witnessing direct impact—whether it's seeing a student transform from feeling lost to finding a clear direction in their research or knowing that my own research is contributing to tangible solutions. I'm now collaborating with a large, diverse team of researchers, which allows me to expand the reach and potential impact of my work—ultimately striving to make an even greater difference in everyday people’s lives.

I apply health services research and health policy in my daily work through a relentless focus on continuous improvement driven by data. My primary activities involve evaluating health programs and identifying actionable solutions to enhance existing systems. In a complex environment like the Military Health System, understanding what works (and what doesn’t) through robust data analysis is paramount. Whether it’s identifying inefficiencies, assessing outcomes, or understanding disparities, I leverage data to inform every decision. The problems are vast, but my work is focused on contributing whatever small part I can to address those that matter most—aiming for tangible improvements in health service delivery and policy, and ultimately enhancing care and outcomes.

For current or future PhD students considering life after graduation, my strongest piece of advice is to master the art of the sprint. It’s a bit tongue-in-cheek, but the reality is that while big policy shifts take forever, those calls for papers, abstracts, and grant applications? They come with incredibly tight deadlines! This means you need to be constantly prepared and proactive. This readiness extends to the classroom as well—even familiar concepts can spark unexpected questions from students, requiring you to be sharp and adaptable. Being able to clearly articulate your work and ideas—essentially, being “elevator pitch” ready—at any given moment is how I’ve found success and managed to capitalize on opportunities.

Looking back, my time at Mason was truly a blast and remains one of the most transformative periods of my life. The opportunity to have dedicated space to deeply ponder complex problems is a unique privilege—a true luxury that’s hard to find later on. So, soak up every moment. Also, remember that change often happens incrementally. You might not always see the immediate impact of your work, but trust me—you’re probably contributing more than you know. Hold onto your “why”—the core reason you embarked on this journey—and let it guide you. You’ve got this!

My decision to pursue the Health Services Research (HSR) PhD program at George Mason University was a pivotal step in my commitment to enhancing the healthcare landscape, particularly within the military and veteran health systems. With over two decades as a military officer—serving in diverse roles from an Enlisted Combat Corpsman to Chief Financial Officer in Naval medical facilities—I gained an intricate understanding of healthcare operations and the critical need for evidence-based improvements. My professional background instilled in me a deep desire to improve the Navy's Health Services Research capacity through innovation, research, teaching, and service. George Mason’s HSR program, with its strong emphasis on health systems and policy, was the ideal platform to achieve this. It offered the rigorous methodological training in areas like data-driven research and policy analysis that I needed to transition from administrative leadership to impactful scientific research.

The coursework at George Mason was foundational, equipping me with the advanced analytical skills critical for high-level health services research. Courses in quantitative and qualitative research methods, especially those related to large datasets, directly prepared me for my current work. My dissertation committee, including Dr. Panagiota Kitsantas, Dr. Deborah Goldberg, and Dr. Beth Hawks, provided exceptional mentorship. Their expertise—particularly in areas like statistics, qualitative research methods, and data visualization—was invaluable. They not only guided my dissertation but also fostered my growth in scholarly publication, evidenced by multiple peer-reviewed articles published during and immediately after my program. The program's rigor and the faculty's dedication deeply shaped my ability to conduct impactful research and contribute to the academic community.

My dissertation was a multi-method study titled "Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health Illnesses Among U.S. Veterans: A Multi-Method Study Using Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods." This research involved extensive quantitative analysis of national datasets like the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, as well as qualitative exploration of the lived experiences of homeless veterans with substance use disorders and mental illness. The process of conducting this research was not only important for the U.S. Veteran community, but also fulfilled my longtime desire to help my fellow Veterans. It honed my expertise in advanced statistical analysis, mixed-methods research, and deeply understanding the nuanced challenges faced by vulnerable populations. This project culminated in several peer-reviewed publications such as "Prescription Opioid Misuse and Suicidal Behaviors Among US Veterans" and "Perspectives of Homeless Veterans Living With Substance Use Disorders (SUD) and Mental Illness."

In my most recent roles as Program Director and Assistant Professor at USU, I consistently apply the research methods and skills I developed at George Mason. Advanced statistical modeling—particularly in analyzing large health system datasets—is paramount for the research I conduct and participate in. My work on "Impacts of TRICARE’s Behavioral Health Parity on Utilization and Expenditure" directly leverages these skills. I frequently use my proficiency in qualitative data analysis to understand complex health issues from the lived experiences of patients and providers, as demonstrated by my ongoing presentations on "The Homeless Veteran Perspective." Beyond specific methods, the program ingrained in me the ability to critically evaluate literature, formulate precise research questions, and effectively disseminate findings through publications and presentations. These skills are also crucial for my teaching responsibilities.

My strategy involved disciplined time management, often dedicating early mornings, evenings, and weekends to coursework, research, and writing. Proactive communication with both my academic advisors and military leadership was extremely important for managing expectations and securing necessary flexibility. As a recipient of the Navy Duty Under Instruction (DUINS) Health Care Administration Ph.D. Scholarship, I was provided dedicated time for my studies. I also leveraged my strong organizational skills, honed over two decades in the military, to prioritize tasks and maintain efficiency. Building a supportive network of peers and mentors who understood my unique circumstances was also invaluable.

I secured my most recent roles as Director of the Master of Health Administration and Policy (MHAP) Program and Assistant Professor at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) through a combination of leveraging my professional network, direct applications, and showcasing the relevance of my doctoral research. My vast understanding of military healthcare systems, combined with my rigorous HSR training and the practical insights from my dissertation, made me a highly suitable candidate for USU—an institution dedicated to advancing health for military and public health systems. My success in quickly elevating the MHAP program's U.S. News & World Report ranking from 60 to 31 within two years of my leadership also demonstrated the immediate impact of my expertise.

As Director of the Master of Health Administration and Policy (MHAP) Program, my core responsibilities include strategic planning, curriculum oversight, program administration, and fostering an environment that enhances educational quality for both students and faculty. I've been instrumental in initiatives like establishing the Upsilon Phi Delta (UPD) International Honor Society chapter at USU, initiating participation and coaching successful teams in national health administration case competitions (e.g., DMV Case Collaborative, UAB Health Administration Case Competition), and starting the MHAP Program Speaker Series, which brings diverse health executive leaders to our students.

As an Assistant Professor, I teach graduate-level courses like "Principles of Healthcare Management" and "Strategic Planning and Marketing for Health Systems," conduct independent research, and mentor both MHAP and PhD students.

What I enjoy most about these roles is the direct impact I can have on the future of military and federal healthcare leaders. Witnessing my students thrive—whether by excelling in case competitions or developing their own research interests—is incredibly rewarding. I also cherish the ability to continue my research into critical areas like veteran mental health, knowing that my work can directly inform policies and improve care for those who have served our nation. The Dean's Impact Award and Cinda Helke Award for Excellence in Graduate Student Advocacy I received in 2024 demonstrate the deep satisfaction I draw from these contributions.

My nearly 20-year career as a military officer—including my time as an Enlisted Combat Corpsman in the U.S. Marine Corps and later at the Orlando Veterans Affairs Medical Center (OVAMC)—directly exposed me to the significant and often complex challenges veterans face, particularly regarding mental health and substance use disorders. I saw firsthand the profound impact of these issues on individuals and their families, and the critical need for better, more accessible care. My roles at the VA, especially as an Administrative Officer for the MHRRTP/Domiciliary (Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program) and HUD-VASH programs, provided a deep understanding of these vulnerabilities. My research is driven by a deep commitment to addressing these disparities. I hope my work will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the unique factors influencing veteran behavioral health. Ultimately, I aim for my research to inform evidence-based policy changes and clinical interventions that enhance prevention, improve access to quality care, reduce stigma, and significantly improve the health and well-being of veterans and their families.

For current PhD students working on their dissertation, my strongest advice is to approach it as a marathon, not a sprint, and to maintain consistent progress rather than aiming for perfection in one go. Break the process down into smaller, manageable tasks. Communicate regularly and openly with your dissertation committee; their guidance is so important! Don't be afraid to ask for help or take necessary breaks to avoid burnout. Remember that "done is better than perfect" when it comes to the initial drafts; you can always refine. Start thinking about potential dissertation topics early. For those preparing for the job market, start early and strategically network. Your George Mason connections—as well as memberships in organizations like Academy Health, APHA, and the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)—are powerful resources. Tailor your CV and cover letters meticulously to each specific position, clearly articulating how your research expertise, methodological skills, and unique experiences directly align with the job requirements. Be persistent, learn from every interview, and have confidence in the unique and highly valuable skill set you've developed.

For prospective students—particularly those with government or military backgrounds—deciding to pursue a PhD is a significant commitment that demands careful consideration of your time management capabilities, the fundamental purpose of undertaking a PhD, and its projected impact on your career trajectory.

First, assess your time management skills rigorously. A PhD program, even part-time, is an immense investment of time and intellectual energy. For those balancing existing government or military responsibilities, it's crucial to realistically evaluate how you'll carve out dedicated hours for coursework, research, and writing. Discipline, efficiency, and the ability to set firm boundaries will be your most valuable assets.

Second, be crystal clear about the purpose of pursuing a PhD. It's not just an advanced degree; it's a journey to become an independent scholar—an expert capable of generating new knowledge and solving complex problems through rigorous research. For those from government or military backgrounds, this means shifting from a focus on operational execution to one of critical inquiry and evidence generation. Ask yourself: "What specific, complex problems do I want to solve, and how will the advanced research and analytical skills gained from a PhD program uniquely equip me to address them?"

Finally, consider what a PhD will do for your career once you complete it. For individuals with government or military experience, a PhD can be a powerful accelerator. It transitions you from being a consumer of research to a producer—opening doors to leadership roles in research, policy development, academia, and advanced strategic planning within federal agencies, non-profits, or the private sector. This degree will not only deepen your specialized knowledge, as mine did in health services research for military populations, but also elevate your professional credibility and expand your opportunities to shape policy and practice at a systemic level.

At the start of the program, I wish I had understood the absolute necessity of a dual-pronged strategy for success: combining proactive self-care with an aggressive, highly structured approach to degree completion.

While self-care and avoiding burnout are necessary for the marathon that is a PhD, they must be integrated into a disciplined plan—not used as an excuse for procrastination. My advice is to approach your degree with the mindset of completing it within 3–5 years, if at all possible. Doing this demands designing a meticulous schedule from day one. Map out your coursework, comprehensive exam preparation, and every dissertation phase (proposal and defense) with solid milestones and deadlines. Treat your dissertation chapters like final projects, setting aggressive but achievable submission targets. This aggressive approach needs to be balanced by non-negotiable self-care blocks built directly into that rigorous schedule. These are not optional "if I have time" activities, but necessary components to maintain your energy and focus. Whether it's dedicated exercise, time with loved ones, or a hobby—protect these periods with everything you have!

Finally, I wish I had fully appreciated the power of strategic collaboration and networking from the outset. Beyond your committee, actively seek out and cultivate relationships with peers and faculty across disciplines. These connections are invaluable for academic growth, potential co-authorships, and building a strong professional network that extends beyond your graduation date. “Embrace the suck,” as us military folks say, but always with a detailed plan and a commitment to protecting your well-being to ensure timely and successful completion of your degree.