Dr. Ma’at is Inspired by Science, Driven by Community, and Fueled by Equity

As Director, CEO, and Principal Investigator of IHEER, Dr. Ma’at is inspired by science, driven by community, and fueled by equity. She stands at the forefront of transformative public health education, research and mentorship. With a career spanning U.S. states like VA, MN, CO, and NJ, as well as global work in Bangladesh and India, she champions culturally grounded, equitable solutions to uplift underserved communities. Her mission? To turn research into actionable change where people live, work, and thrive.

A Leader in Innovation

Dr. Ma’at’s expertise spans social determinants of health, maternal mental wellness, infectious disease control, and more. She’s spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives like the Keepin’ it R.E.A.L. curriculum—a nationally adopted substance use prevention program—and No Smokin’ Hood, a digital platform designed to support inner-city menthol smokers. Her work with the American Cancer Society and Children’s Hospital DC highlights her commitment to bridging gaps in care, from smoking cessation to postpartum depression and infant health.

Collaboration as Catalyst

From training EPA staff in community engagement to partnering with housing authorities and global health ministries, Dr. Ma’at thrives on teamwork. She’s mobilized stakeholders across sectors—epidemiologists, advocacy groups, medical schools—to drive policy reform and resource access. Her efforts in NJ’s Trenton Housing Authority, for instance, improved walkability and nutrition access for 3,200+ residents, proving that sustainable change starts with community voices.

Mentorship & Global Impact

A celebrated mentor, Dr. Ma’at shapes future health leaders through hands-on training in health equity education, research, and supportive mentoring. Her workshops and international collaborations, like Ebola research across the African Diaspora, underscore her dedication to capacity-building. Whether reducing perinatal disparities in VA or advancing HPV education via Planned Parenthood in PA, her strategies blend rigor with compassion.

Rooted in Results

Dr. Ma’at’s work isn’t just about data—it’s about dignity. By integrating participatory research, digital innovation, and policy advocacy, she empowers communities to own their health narratives. For organizations and leaders seeking to align vision with impact, Dr. Ma’at offers a blueprint: equity-centered, evidence-driven, and always human-first.

Explore more about her journey and join the movement to redefine health justice at www.iheer.org.

Inspired by science. Driven by community. Fueled by equity.