Dena Barnwell
Professional Care Bear
I am a proud mom and care bear. My journey to public health was born during my childhood. With limited access to traditional healthcare, my caretakers placed high importance on health and wellness. As such, I was exposed to the importance of good nutrition and physical activity. In my late teens, I interned with a doctor in Kansas and participated in the delivery and postpartum care for dozens of families.
As an adult, I went to school to get formal education and learn how to positively impact the community. I have earned a Bachelor's degree in Health Education & Promotion, a Master's degree in Health Science, national certification as a Health Education Specialist (CHES®), and state certification as a Community Health Worker (CCHW). Currently, I am a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) student at THE Morgan State University focusing on violence prevention, father-inclusive perinatal care, and social connectedness.
Waiting for the 'right' thing to happen is like "waiting for all the traffic lights be green... before starting the trip." -Robert Kiyosaki