Academic Health Department
Academic Health DepartmentWhat We Do
The TDH Academic Health Department (AHD) provides opportunities for students, faculty, and academic institutions to partner with the Tennessee Department of Health. The AHD centrally manages student experiences including internships, fellowships, medical residencies, and collaborative projects. The goal of the AHD is to engage students, educators, and new graduates in meaningful practice to protect and improve the health and well-being of people in Tennessee.
Contact: AHD.health@tn.gov
Students interested in a public health career can visit the Public Health Careers Explorer to see what could be a good fit!
Opportunities
Education: Engaging with timely, relevant topics to increase knowledge and skills. This two-way communication contributes to both Workforce Development and faculty connection with practitioners.
Relationship-building: Networking among practitioners, faculty, and students in areas of mutual interest builds and extends trust.
Practice-focused research: Relevant research opportunities are identified as stakeholders discuss needs, emphasizing the iterative cycle where research translates to practice and practice informs research.
Improving the public’s health: The ultimate goal is to ensure that prevention interventions are supported by science and effective in practice in order to improve the public’s health. This motive drives all other outcomes.
Focus Areas
| Focus Areas | Services Offered |
| Service Learning | Internships |
| Practice Experience | Fellowships |
| Workforce Pipeline Development | Shadowing |
| Institutional Engagement | Scholarships |
| Continuing Education | Classroom Visits |
| Connections to Research Opportunities | Expert TDH Staff Lectures |
| Exchange of Faculty and Staff | Tours of TDH Facilities |
| Academic Meetings and Symposia | AHD Affiliation Agreements |
Advisory Committee
The AHDAC helps guide the strategic direction of the Tennessee Department of Health’s Academic Health Department in service to academic institutions, students, and the public health workforce including advisement on programming, goals, objectives, and sustainability. The AHDAC is composed of 11 faculty members representing public health programs at 11 Tennessee institutions of higher learning.
Amir Alakaam
MPH Program Director
University of Tennessee, Chattanooga
Taylor Dula
Assistant Dean for Student Services
East Tennessee State University
Julie Grubaugh
Undergraduate Program Director
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Garret Harper
MPH Program Director
Trevecca Nazarene University
Brad Hawkings
MPH Practicum Director
Vanderbilt University
Ilias Kavouras
Assistant Dean, Academic Affairs
University of Memphis
Jareese K. Lee
Director, Program Management, School of Global Health
Meharry Medical College
Miranda Sanford Terry
Director, Public Health Programs
Tennessee State University
Heather Tillewein
Assistant Professor
Austin Peay State University
Christian Williams
Chair, Department of Public Health
Belmont University
Bethany Wrye
Chair, Dept. of Health and Human Performance
MIddle Tennessee State University
Partnerships
Our partner organizations include the Tennessee Public Health Association, Health Occupations Students of America, and tnAchieves. Through these partnerships, we engage high schoolers, those looking to pursue a degree in public health, and those already in degree programs. We offer a number of scholarships to support conference attendance and higher education in health-related fields as part of our strategic mission to build a robust public health workforce.
Fall 2025 Cohort
Blessing Awolade
School: East Tennessee State University
Degree: Master of Public Health, Epidemiology
Placement: Division of Community Health Services, Northeast Regional Health Office
My name is Blessing Awolade, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree with a concentration in Epidemiology at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee. I hold a medical degree (MBBS) from Bowen University in Nigeria. My interests lie in pediatric health, infectious disease epidemiology, and addressing health disparities in underserved communities. My clinical background has shaped my passion for public health, especially in using data and research to inform policies that improve population health. I am committed to contributing to solutions that are both evidence-based and equity-driven. As part of my Applied Practice Experience, I will be working with the Northeast Tennessee Regional Health Office under the supervision of Isabella Reid, MPH. I look forward to supporting disease surveillance, public health programming, and research efforts across the region's seven counties while gaining practical experience that will help shape my future career in medicine and public health.
Emily Barr
School: East Tennessee State University
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Health Administration
Placement: Division of Community Health Services, Northeast Regional Health Office
My name is Emily Barr. I'm from Erwin, Tennessee, and currently a senior at East Tennessee State University. I am working towards getting my Bachelor's degree in Health Administration, and I am passionate about improving the health of our community. I am set to work with Michelle McNabb and her team in the northeast region. I am excited I get the opportunity to expand my knowledge and find ways I can benefit the community.
Karl Brown
School: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Health Science
Placement: Division of Communicable and Environmental Diseases and Emergency Preparedness, Waterborne and Zoonotic Diseases
My name is Karl Brown, and I am from Chattanooga, Tennessee. I am currently attending the University of Tennessee - Knoxville, as a graduate student. I am majoring in a Master of Public Health with a concentration in epidemiology. I developed an interest in health while serving in the U.S. Army as an Operating Room Specialist. I will be working with the Waterborne & Zoonotic Disease Program. I will help serve the community by monitoring, investigating, and preventing the spread of infectious diseases to protect public health and promote community well-being.
Kierra Calhoun
School: University of Memphis
Degree: Master of Business Administration, Healthcare Management
Placement: Division of Community Health Services, West Regional Health Office
My name is Kierra Calhoun, I am a Memphis native currently attending the University of Memphis. Once I complete my Master's of Business Administration, I aspire to work in healthcare management improving the quality of patient care. My interest in supporting patients stemmed from my passion for community service.
Lily Cravens
School: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Public Health
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness, Chronic Disease Prevention
My name is Lily Cravens, and I am from Dyersburg, TN. I currently attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where I am enrolled in the Public Health Five-Year Bachelor's and Master's Program with concentrations in Population Health Sciences and Epidemiology. After graduation, I plan to become an Epidemiologist. I will be working with Emma Davis in the Division of Family Health and Wellness on the prevention and management of chronic diseases. Specifically, we will promote Blue Zone projects to increase longevity and foster healthier communities.
Anaya Dishmon
School: Vanderbilt University
Degree: Bachelor of Arts, Medicine, Health & Society
Placement: Division of Health Disparities Elimination
Originally from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Medicine, Health, and Society at Vanderbilt University. I am passionate about advancing health equity and plan to pursue a career in health policy, with a focus on addressing and eliminating racial health disparities in Tulsa County and beyond. I will be working alongside Michél Perry in the Division of Health Disparities Elimination, tackling systemic issues to help those who need it most by supporting community-based initiatives, analyzing policy impacts, and promoting equity-driven public health strategies.
Gracelyn Eaves
School: Austin Peay State University
Degree: Master of Public Health
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness, Chronic Disease Prevention
I am a dedicated and ambitious Master of Public Health student at Austin Peay State University, where I maintain a 4.0 GPA and serve as President of Eta Sigma Gamma. A passionate, aspiring surgeon and servant leader, I bring a strong foundation in biology, having earned my Bachelor of Science degree from Bethel University with a 3.96 GPA and extensive leadership involvement, including roles as SGA President and VP of the Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society. My public health interests are deeply rooted in community service and research. I currently lead a grant-funded study examining mental health resource access in rural Tennessee, where I collected over 1,200 survey responses. Gracelyn continuously volunteers with Second Harvest Food Bank and participated in a mission trip to Guatemala, delivering dental health services to over 150 children. My professional experience includes working as a cardiac assistant at Williamson Health, where I support patient care and gain exposure to clinical and administrative healthcare and hospital operations. With skills in communication, problem-solving, and event planning, I bring a well-rounded, service-driven approach to public health. I am is excited to join the Tennessee Department of Health internship program and look forward to contributing meaningfully while expanding my knowledge of public health practices in a real-world setting. I am eager to learn from professionals in the field, develop hands-on experience in program planning and evaluation, and grow as a future public health leader committed to advancing health equity and rural health initiatives.
Treasure Ebikwo
School: Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health
Degree: Master of Public Health, Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness
My name is Treasure Ebikwo. I am a Master of Public Health (MPH) candidate in the Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences (BSHES) department at Emory University, where I am also pursuing a certificate in Data Science. I have a background in Health, Society, and Populations from the University of Kentucky, and I'm passionate about using data and behavioral science to support healthier communities, which starts with families. I'm especially interested in work that connects prevention, research, and practice to create more equitable health outcomes. I'm excited to bring this passion to the Division of Family Health and Wellness.
Autumn Ganis
School: University of Alabama, Birmingham
Degree: Master of Public Health
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness, Family Planning
I am originally from Charleston, SC but have had the great pleasure of calling Nashville home for the past 6 years. I am currently pursuing my Master of Public Health in Maternal Child Health Policy and Leadership at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I also serve as the Child Death Review Team Coordinator at the Metro Nashville Public Health Department, where I facilitate multidisciplinary reviews of child fatalities in Davidson County and collaborate with community partners to develop data driven recommendations for prevention strategies. I am very passionate about improving outcomes for children in families through evidence based health initiatives and reducing health disparities. My internship with the Family Planning program in the Division of Family Health and Wellness is focused on creating a contraception toolkit for local TDH health departments, providers, and programs that provide family planning services.
Ahmed Imami
School: Vanderbilt University
Degree: Bachelor of Arts
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness, Injury Prevention
My name is Ahmed Imami. I am from Orlando, Florida and currently attending Vanderbilt University, studying Biological Sciences and Psychology. I am interning with the Injury Prevention Center, and I look forward to contributing to the improvement of community initiatives.
Samantha Kendall
School: East Tennessee State University
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Rehabilitative Health Sciences
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness
My name is Samantha Kendall, and I am from Greene County, Tennessee. I am currently pursuing my bachelor's degree in Rehabilitative Health Sciences at East Tennessee State University, with the intention of becoming an pediatric occupational therapist. My passion in public health lies in youth health advocacy policies and programs, specifically fighting against underage nicotine use. I will use what I learn this semester to continue to promote the health and wellness of our next generations. This semester, I will be working alongside Megan Sills in the Tobacco Control Program to assist with youth advocacy efforts.
Laura Ketron
School: University of Tennessee
Degree: Master of Public Health
Placement: Division of Communicable and Environmental Diseases and Emergency Preparedness
My name is Laura Ketron, and I am a graduate student at the University of Tennessee, pursuing a Master of Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology. I am originally from rural Appalachia and earned my Bachelor's degree in Health Science from East Tennessee State University. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong interest in infectious disease epidemiology, and my background made me keenly aware of the environmental health threats affecting underserved communities. I am excited for the opportunity to work with the Tennessee Department of Health through the Communicable and Environmental Diseases and Emergency Preparedness program. I look forward to strengthening my skills in surveillance, outbreak response, and emergency preparedness in order to ultimately better serve my community.
Khadija Kuyateh
School: Emory University
Degree: Master of Public Health, Epidemiology
Placement: Office of Primary Prevention
My name is Khadija Kuyateh, and I am a Master of Public Health student in Epidemiology at Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health, pursuing a certificate in Maternal and Child Health. I am passionate about using evidence-based research to drive decision-making and improve outcomes for women, children, and families. Recently, I worked as a Public Health Law Intern at the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE). In this role, I helped with legal and policy initiatives related to data use in epidemiology, contributed to national assessments, and worked on making complex legal concepts more understandable for epidemiologists. This past academic year, I also worked with the CDC's Child Development and Disability Branch's Data and Statistics Team, where I focused on research and statistical analysis for children with developmental delays and disabilities. I have also worked with the Stillbirth Advocacy Working Group (SAWG-USA), where I translated important scientific studies into advocacy materials for bereaved families, policymakers, and clinicians, aiming to tackle disparities in stillbirth prevention. This fall, I am thrilled to be joining Michael Paul and the Office of Primary Prevention, where I will be supporting the evaluation of community programs and initiatives. I will be working with tools such as REDCap, Tableau, and various statistical software to collect, analyze, and visualize data, all in an effort to assess program effectiveness and shape strategies for making a positive impact in nonprofit and public health.
Lia Nagge
School: Vanderbilt University
Degree: Master of Public Health, Health Policy
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness
My name is Lia Nagge, and I'm a Nashville native currently pursuing a Master of Public Health at Vanderbilt University. Prior to attending Vanderbilt, I developed a strong interest in genetic counseling, and this sparked my passion for increasing accessibility to personalized medicine as a means to improve population health and reduce health inequities. I hope to build a career focused on research and implementation strategies to enhance health outcomes for communities with the least access to care. I'm excited to be working with Dr. Emily Davis in the Division of Family Health and Wellness through the Chronic Disease/Blue Zones internship.
Andrea Deladem Nutsugah
School: East Tennessee State University
Degree: Master of Public Health, Community Health and Behavioral Health
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness, Chronic Disease Prevention
I am Andrea Deladem Nutsugah from Ghana, West Africa, a current MPH candidate at East Tennessee State University, with a concentration in Community Health and Behavioral Health. With a medical background, I bring four years of experience in both clinical practice and public health, with a particular focus on chronic disease prevention and community-based outreach. My interests include promoting health equity through data-driven research, culturally responsive education, sustainable behavior change strategies and advancing disability equity through inclusive public health practices and advocacy. I've had the privilege of contributing to a project examining the relationship between food security and chronic disease in rural Appalachia, including evaluating a produce prescription program aimed at improving dietary behaviors and health outcomes. As part of the Blue Zones initiative, I am excited to contribute to coalition building, needs assessment, and impactful community engagement to support healthier, longer lives for Tennesseans.
Alyssa Rudolph
School: Belmont University
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Placement: Office of Primary Prevention
My name is Alyssa Rudolph. I am from Spring Hill, Tennessee, and I'm currently a senior at Belmont University in Nashville. After graduating with my Bachelor of Science in Public Health, I plan to attend dental school. My long term goal is to provide dental care in rural and underserved communities. My public health education has taught me the importance of health communication and health equity, and I hope to practice these lessons in my future career. At TDH I will be working in the Office of Primary Prevention in nutrition security where I will be creating a resource guide to assist professionals in the field of food insecurity.
Erica Seal
School: East Tennessee State University
Degree: Master of Public Health, Leadership and Policy
Placement: Division of Community Health Services, Sevier County Health Department
My name is Erica Seal and I am currently a student at East Tennessee State University. After obtaining my Master of Public Health, I hope to obtain a position that will allow me to work with disadvantaged populations. Coming from a small town with a severe shortage of health care and resources, I hope to make a difference in connecting individuals to resources as well as study the root issues that cause health care gaps throughout our state. I will be working with the Sevier County Health Department throughout many programs in Sevier County, as well as gaining additional experience through my current student position with the Tennessee Department of Health Foodborne and Enteric Diseases in epidemiology.
Priscilla Sekpey
School: East Tennessee State University
Degree: Master of Public Health, Community Health Concentration
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness, Chronic Disease Prevention
My name is Priscilla D. Sekpey (Pharm.D), originally from Accra, Ghana. I am currently pursuing a Master of Public Health degree at East Tennessee State University where I also currently serve as a research assistant in my department. My strengths lie in my interpersonal, managerial, and organizing skills. My passion for public health grew from my clinical pharmacy work in a military hospital in Accra, where I saw how limited access to preventive care and health education negatively affected rural and underserved populations. These experiences inspired my commitment to addressing chronic disease and health disparities especially through education. I am excited to contribute to the Chronic Disease Prevention, Cardiovascular, Diabetes, and Blue Zones team and gain hands-on experience this fall. I look forward to expanding my skills in health communication, chronic disease management, and project management while helping to advance sustainable, health-promoting behavior. My ultimate goal is to build self-sustainable clinics in rural areas in Ghana to improve access to primary healthcare and preventive services.
Meagan To
School: Vanderbilt University
Degree: Bachelor of Arts, Medicine, Health & Society
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness, Chronic Disease Prevention
My name is Meagan To. I was born and raised in San Francisco but am currently attending Vanderbilt University in Nashville. After completing my undergraduate degree in Medicine, Health, and Society, I plan to attend dental school. The health disparities faced by my family and community members sparked my interest in healthcare, business, and public policy. I am passionate about health equity and founded Project Smile Global, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing oral health disparities. I strive to deepen my understanding of the social determinants of health and will be doing so through the Chronic Disease Prevention Internship, where I will focus on research and implementation related to cardiovascular health, diabetes, and Blue Zones.
Morgan Turner
School: East Tennessee State University
Degree: Master of Public Health, Epidemiology
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness
My name is Morgan Turner, and I am from Rogersville, TN. I am currently pursuing a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology at East Tennessee State University and also have a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration. I will be working as a chronic disease intern within the Division of Family Health and Wellness. My passion for public health comes from living in rural Appalachia and witnessing the unique health challenges faced throughout the region. My interests include chronic disease prevention, emergency preparedness, and environmental epidemiology. I am excited to contribute to meaningful chronic disease prevention projects while gaining more experience!
Jahya Winters
School: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Degree: Master of Public Health
Placement: Division of Family Health and Wellness
My name is Jahya Winters and I am from LaVergne, Tennessee. My current role within the Tennessee Department of Health is with the HIV/STI/VH program as a Disease Intervention Specialist. I plan to use my prior years of experience and the knowledge gained during this internship as a stepping stone to continue my career with TDH. I will be working with Cristina Torres in the Division of Family Health and Wellness helping with the Doula project and anywhere else it may seem fit.
Internships
Apply for Placement
Are you a college student looking for an internship and a better understanding of what we do in public health? We offer experiences for both in-state and out-of-state students. Assisting the Department of Health (TDH) in understanding what you want to learn helps us identify the best opportunity available. If we find that your interests and our needs align, we will contact you to discuss placement. Please note all applicants must be at least 18 years old and high school graduates or equivalent at the time of placement.
The application for Fall 2026 is now open and will close April 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM CST.
Please email us at AHD.Health@tn.gov with questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but not all. Starting Fall 2025, the Academic Health Department will fund a select number of internship projects. Interns will also be able to apply to unpaid internships as well. During the application process, project descriptions will make clear whether you are applying to an unpaid or paid opportunity.
If an intern is accepted for a paid internship with the Department of Health, they may work up to 400 hours with payment within the start and end dates of their contract. After their contracted end date has been reached, they are no longer entitled to payment even if they have not reached 400 hours total.
Spring Semester: September 1st to September 30th of prior year
Summer Semester: January 15th to February 15th of same year
Fall Semester: March 15th to April 15th of same year
Fall internships are August-December
Spring internships are January-April
Summer internships are June-August
Most interns complete 200-400 hours by working part-time or full-time. If an intern is accepted for a paid internship with the Department of Health, they may work up to 400 hours with payment within the start and end dates of their contract. After their contracted end date has been reached, they are no longer entitled to payment even if they have not reached 400 hours total.
Depending on the program’s requirements and our office’s needs, interns can complete their experience by working a minimum of two days per week, and up to full time. In submitting your application, please be specific about your time constraints.
Communicable and Environmental Diseases & Emergency Preparedness - The Communicable and Environmental Diseases and Emergency Preparedness Division (CEDEP) works to track the spread of diseases and to make sure that Tennesseans are ready for both disease and non-disease emergencies. CEDEP has thirteen different program areas, and routine activities include disease surveillance, outbreak investigation and prevention, and emergency preparedness.
Communication - The Office of Communication and Media Relations coordinates, directs, and executes the department’s overall external and internal communication strategy in alignment with and supporting TDH’s mission and goals. OCMR’s prime objective is to provide accurate, consistent, and impactful information through digital, social, and traditional communication and media platforms to diverse audiences, constituencies, partners, and stakeholders.
Family Health and Wellness - The Division of Family Health and Wellness (FHW) comprises Maternal and Child Health, Special Supplemental Nutrition, and Chronic Disease and Health Promotion programs. Family Health and Wellness programs are provided in all 95 Tennessee counties through a network of local and regional health departments.
Health Disparities Elimination - The Division of Health Disparities Elimination works to decrease gaps in health outcomes and improve access to health care and services. Key priorities are prioritizing and advancing health equity, Increasing health access, improving accessibility, and engaging and supporting communities.
General Counsel - The Office of General Counsel (OGC) provides legal support to the Department regarding typical state, in-house counsel matters such as contracts, public records, and HR, provides advice and amendatory language regarding legislative proposals, drafts and shepherds rules through the rulemaking process, provides legal advice for the health-related licensing boards, and investigates and pursues disciplinary cases against health care licensees who violate their practice act. Students applying for a placement with this office must have completed at least one year of law school, with two years preferred.
Informatics and Analytics - The Office of Informatics and Analytics (OIA) focuses on data and the team’s role in promoting data to drive insightful public health decision-making at TDH. OIA consists of three units that each work on aspects of the data lifecycle: Data Governance, Core Informatics, and Advanced Analytics and Visualization. Together, OIA has contributed to TDH’s data landscape through data analysis, dashboard development, data release guidelines, development of data suppression best practices and setting standards for health informatics and interoperability.
Local Health Departments - Local health departments are essential components of the public health system, responsible for safeguarding and enhancing the health and well-being of communities in their jurisdiction. They carry out a wide range of functions that include disease control and prevention, health education, and promotion, as well as maternal and child health services. Additionally, they monitor and regulate environmental factors affecting public health, such as food safety, water quality, and air quality. In times of emergency, local health departments play a crucial role in disaster preparedness and response. They also oversee health inspections of various establishments and track the occurrence of diseases through surveillance systems. Ensuring access to healthcare services, conducting community health assessments, and advocating for public health policies are among their key responsibilities. By collaborating with other healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations, local health departments work to address health disparities, promote wellness, and protect the health of their communities.
Overdose Response Coordination - The Overdose Response Coordination Office (ORCO) was established in 2018 as TDH’s division for overdose prevention and response. The office provides structure and support to the department’s efforts, oversees grant-funded activities, and cultivates and expands partnerships to strengthen the state’s public health response to the overdose crisis.
Primary Prevention - The Office of Primary Prevention (OPP), created in 2015, serves as a hub for many of the primary prevention efforts at the Tennessee Department of Health, collaborating across the department and with external partners to protect, promote and improve the health and prosperity of people in Tennessee. The Office of Primary Prevention is staffed by an Office Director, Primary Prevention Coordinator, Clinical Director, Evaluation and Assessment Director, and a Built Environment and Grants Coordinator. The office also supports the work of seven regional Healthy Development Coordinators and typically hosts at least one Commissioner’s Fellow and intern.
Population Health Assessment - The Division of Population Health Assessment (PHA) collects, maintains, analyzes, and reports data from federal and state surveillance systems that collect data on disease incidence/prevalence, hospital visits, and behavioral health indicators across the state of Tennessee.
Regional Health Offices - Regional health offices play a pivotal role in healthcare coordination, serving as intermediaries between central office and local health departments. Their responsibilities encompass resource allocation, public health planning, and the oversight of healthcare service delivery within a specific geographic area. In addition to ensuring equitable access to healthcare resources, they are crucial in disaster preparedness, disease surveillance, health data analysis, health promotion, and education. Collaborating with various stakeholders, such as local health departments and community organizations, regional health offices work to improve healthcare outcomes, address health disparities, and advocate for policies that benefit the region's population. Their specific roles may vary by location, but they play a vital role in ensuring that healthcare services and public health initiatives are effective, accessible, and tailored to the needs of the communities they serve.
Strategic Initiatives - The Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI) links and leverages TDH strategies and resources with local knowledge, energy, and leadership. They guide the department’s strategic planning process and support Tennessee’s County Health Councils with the help of local, regional, and central office TDH staff and TDH partners to implement upstream, innovative solutions to public health challenges. We do this through process facilitation, technical assistance, policy expertise, and relationship-building.
We provide our interns with a variety of experiences within the Department of Health, including field trips and weekly intern seminars.
Yes! We offer internships in our seven regional offices, many of our local county health departments, and at our central office in Nashville.
TDH does not offer housing for interns, but some offices can give recommendations based on the area.
Clinical practicums are handled through a separate process. We utilize current affiliation agreements with several Tennessee schools and Western Kentucky University to provide opportunities to these students. We are not currently establishing affiliation agreements with additional colleges outside the state of Tennessee. If you are interested in a clinical practicum, please email AHD.health@tn.gov and we will connect you with the office that organizes clinical practicums.
Yes! Our Public Health Executive Fellowship is a one-year, paid position for recent graduates to help them hone their interests in public health while working within TDH.
While completing an internship with TDH does not entitle the intern to a job, many interns have gone on to work for TDH.
Public Health Executive Fellowship
The Tennessee Department of Health's (TDH) Public Health Executive Fellowship is a prestigious career development and mentorship opportunity for recent graduates interested in public health. The program allows fellows to gain practical, hands-on experience addressing critical public health challenges with the support of an experienced team. More than an internship or practicum, the length of the program and full-time nature of the experience allow fellows to become integral contributors to the mission and vision of TDH.
Based in Nashville, the fellowship provides exposure to the diversity and depth of work performed in a state health department. Along the way, fellows serve as core members of the TDH team.
The Position & Competencies
The Public Health Executive Fellowship is a one-year program that can be extended for a potential second year. During the first year, the fellow serves primarily in a home office, where the fellow will serve as a full-time team member alongside seasoned public health professionals. If TDH and the fellow mutually agree to a second year, the fellow will continue to serve in the home office while pursuing a capstone project. Previous projects have included a detailed history of TDH’s response to the opioid epidemic, literature reviews, and the development of resources and recommended practices for TDH programs. Previous fellows developed deliverables that were presented to the Governor and state legislature.
Fellows will apply to a home office based on their individual career goals and interests. The home office will be the primary factor in determining the fellow’s responsibilities and projects. The fellow’s work plan is also tailored to support professional growth along their desired career path. The Division of Communicable and Environmental Diseases and Emergency Preparedness, Division the of Family Health and Wellness (Injury Prevention Section), and the Office of Primary Prevention are the 2025 - 2026 home offices available.
Through work with these home offices, Fellows develop professionally across the eight domains of the Core Competencies for Public Health Professionals as set by the Public Health Foundation (PHF).
| PHF Competencies Developed |
| Data Analytics and Assessment Skills |
| Communication Skills |
| Health Equity Skills |
| Community Partnership Skills |
| Public Health Sciences Skills |
| Management and Finance Skills |
| Leadership and Systems Thinking Skills |
2025 - 2026 Home Office Descriptions
UPDATE (July 24, 2025)
This fellowship position with CEDEP has been updated from the original posting. Please read the new description carefully.
Description of Program Area/Role:
The CEDEP section (including HIV, sexually transmitted infections, viral hepatitis, and syndemic coordination programs) is responsible for conducting disease surveillance, investigating clusters, and coordinating prevention efforts statewide to mitigate impacts from these diseases. Section leadership, Dr. Carpenter (section director) and Dr. Thomas (medical director), cover all programs and each subject area also has a designated program director. The Fellow will report directly to Drs. Thomas and Carpenter and be assigned various responsibilities and projects throughout the section. Assignment within the section will provide career development and mentorship in various areas including epidemiologic and qualitative analyses, public health response, and disease program management. The assignment provides flexibility for the Fellow to accommodate specific interests while also incorporating a diversity of key responsibilities.
Responsibilities/Competencies:
- Lead special projects as assigned for the section (e.g., assessment of doxyPEP use, evaluation of mpox vaccine availability).
- Complete analytic activities supporting disease surveillance, with an emphasis on syphilis and hepatitis C.
- Complete a surveillance system evaluation to include detailed analysis, disease program review, and recommendations.
- Participate fully in response activities as they arise such as during outbreaks, clusters, and other situations of public health concern.
- Integrate into the STI Disease Investigation Team.
- Complete a review and plan for enhancing communication between CEDEP programs and metropolitan health departments.
- Submit at least one abstract to a conference and one brief report or manuscript to a peer-reviewed journal.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Masters-trained (e.g., MPH) or higher candidate.
- Skills in data management and analysis, professional writing, collaborative work style, and communication.
- Open to working in a cross-cutting manner with multiple program activities.
Description of Program Area/Role:
The Injury Prevention Section, housed within the Division of Family Health and Wellness (FHW), monitors injury trends across the life course and analyzes data to understand the factors contributing to fetal, infant, and child deaths in Tennessee. The team works to reduce future harm by coordinating and implementing evidence-based programs in collaboration with systems, communities and individuals.
Responsibilities/Competencies:
- Lead the implementation of various infant safe sleep initiatives, including relaunching the Hospital Safe Sleep Project and developing a safe sleep training curriculum for the Department.
- Support various suicide prevention initiatives, such as overseeing the weekly dissemination of TDH ESSENCE alerts to subscribers and delivery training on the ESSENCE system and rapid response planning and/or Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR).
- Oversee the Safe Stars Initiative by promoting the program amongst youth sports organizations, providing technical assistance to applicants, certifying eligible organizations, maintaining the participant list, and updating the program webpage.
- Support efforts within the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) program to better serve veterans affected by TBI by assessing gaps, strengthening partnerships, and increasing awareness.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in public health, health administration, health sciences, social work, or a related field; however, a master’s degree in public health, health administration, or a related field is preferred.
- Flexible and responsive to evolving programmatic needs.
- Knowledge of or willingness to learn evidence-based injury prevention strategies.
- Public speaking and presentation skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills that promote successful collaboration and partnership building.
- Demonstrated ability to write for diverse audiences.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
- Interest in gaining proficiency with Canva for visual communication.
Description of Program Area/Role:
The Office of Primary Prevention is housed within the Population Health Column and works to address the non-clinical and environmental factors that impact the health of communities. The office oversees initiatives at the intersection of the built environment and public health, including administering the department’s Healthy Built Environments grant program, supporting the work of seven regional Healthy Development Coordinators, and working across the department and with external partners to improve access to active transportation, parks and greenspace, affordable housing, and healthy food. The office also provides resources related to workforce development, overseeing the department’s TRAIN learning management system and developing trainings to support staff in policy, systems, and environmental change efforts.
Responsibilities/Competencies:
- Develop or support projects that facilitate the creation of healthy built environments, including Health Impact Assessment, community engagement, and policy briefs.
- Assist with the development of trainings and educational resources to support primary prevention and population health efforts across the department.
- Assist with the development and facilitation of interagency groups focused on livability, food and nutrition security, affordable housing, and outdoor recreation.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree in public health, social sciences, public policy, or related field.
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and relationship-building skills.
- Intermediate level proficiency in MS Office and MS Excel. REDCap and GIS experience a plus but not required.
Eligibility
Graduation from an accredited Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral program in public health or health-related field within the last twelve months and prior to the start of the Fellowship (November).
Compensation
Each fellow will receive a base salary of $48,204 with State of Tennessee benefits and with the potential of an increase in salary if offered a second year.To learn more, please read the guide to the benefits available to state employees.
How to Apply
The window for 2025-2026 fellowship placements will be open August 1 - August 31, 2025.
Application materials will include the following:
- Resume or CV
- Transcripts
- Completed application (through above link), with upload requirements as listed below.
- Essay (1500 words maximum) outlining interests, strengths, and qualifications. Applicants should articulate how this fellowship will benefit their long-term career plans in public health.
- Two letters of recommendation; at least one academic and one non-academic reference, emailed directly from reference.
Please note that requested materials, including reference letters, must be submitted by the deadline in order to be considered. Selected fellows must have completed their degree prior to the start date of the fellowship (November).
All questions should be directed to Casie Higginbotham, Academic Health Department Director, at Casie.Higginbotham@tn.gov.
Application Timeline
Cohorts - First Year Fellows
Benjamin Antwi
Fellow
Division of Communicable and Environmental Diseases and Emergency Preparedness
Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance Program
A resident of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, I am originally from Kumasi in Ghana, where I practiced Physician Assistantship for close to five years. I earned my Master of Public Health from Middle Tennessee State and my Bachelor’s in Physician Assistantship from the University of Health and Allied Sciences.
I am passionate about addressing socio-environmental determinants of health among the general population through research and practice. My special interests are infectious disease prevention in healthcare settings and addressing the dangers of antimicrobial resistance. I believe this fellowship provides the right opportunity and resources to learn from seasoned experts to develop the competencies and skills I need to address infectious disease concerns in Tennessee healthcare settings, while improving the health of all Tennesseans.
Bege Mallam
Fellow
Office of Health Planning
Originally from Northern Nigeria, I hold a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication from Kaduna State University, Nigeria, and a Master of Public Health from Tennessee State University. Over the course of my master’s program, I had the opportunity to intern with the Association of State Public Health Nutritionists (ASPHN), West Tennessee Healthcare through the Tennessee Hospital Association (THA), and the TDH Jackson/Madison Regional Office, where I gained valuable insights and experience in public health.
I am passionate about health education and communication, particularly in the areas of HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases. I am eager to contribute my knowledge and skills to the field and to learn from fellow public health professionals. I look forward to networking with leaders from the health department and other collaborating state agencies, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the health and well-being of Tennesseans.
Cohorts - Senior Fellows
Krista Cole
Senior Fellow
Division of Family Health and Wellness
Originally from Bristol, Tennessee, I earned my Master of Public Health (MPH) with a major in Global Health, and concentration in Community Health Development from Emory University. I simultaneously earned my Certificate in Public Mental Health from Emory. My public health interests span many health topics including, but not limited to, community health and mental health.
Fascinated by health and wellbeing, and healing, health and society has always been a concentration of mine. I have an artistic and engineering mindset, and my goal has always been to figure out what elements can come together to create the healthiest, happiest, and most self-actualized societies. That said, over time, I have concentrated my work in public health leadership. My formal, research experience has been in topics like maternal and child health, health disparities, nutrition, health technology, global mental health education, medical information sciences, physical health, affect, substance abuse, student happiness, spirituality, musicians, and communication between patient and doctor.
I have worked tirelessly to positively impact the health of Tennesseans during my time as a Public Health Executive Fellow for the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH). My role has involved leading and motivating others, coming up with innovative ideas, making key decisions, and driving current public health initiatives. My experience has been invaluable to my public health career in government. I feel I have gotten to work to spread compassion, peace, and healing while gaining impactful skills.
In my current work, I am continuing to lead and motivate others, but also increasing the amount of people I can provide leadership to, coming up with more innovative ideas and continuing working on publications, continuing to make key decisions, and continuing to drive current public health initiatives. One example of a project I am working on is a statewide health improvement project where I am a lead and primary contributor. I continue to be grateful to be mentored by the highly skilled, collaborative, and compassionate leadership at the TDH, and to gain the unique experience in public health at the state government level.
I am hopeful that my work with the state of Tennessee will provide a measurable impact on community health development as I continue to lend my skills and passion to the work I do. Also, I am so grateful that I can continue to help spread compassion and help others to live healthy lives.
Miranda Givens
Senior Fellow
Office of Strategic Initiatives
After growing up in rural Grundy County, Tennessee, I completed both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Public Health from Middle Tennessee State University. During my undergraduate journey, I also minored in Aging Studies to bolster my understanding of aging populations and ways to impact their journey through the highs and lows of traveling through older adulthood.
My experience with the Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI) working under the strategic planning umbrella has opened so many doors. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of planning, facilitating, and evaluating several significant projects and initiatives that have not only aligned with the Department's goals but have also moved the department towards fulfilling its mission. I have worked on projects including the planning and execution of a retreat for Executive Leadership focused on fostering cohesive communication and aligning our strategic goals with actionable plans at all levels of the organization. I developed and facilitated a targeted activity focused on enhancing communication and breaking down information silos, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages transparency and teamwork across departments. I have also done a comprehensive comparison page of state strategic plans, which provided valuable insights for our department’s strategic positioning. I also took on the role of organizer and leader for the Tennessee Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council (TN PCaQoLAC). These accomplishments have not only reinforced my commitment to the Department's mission but have also demonstrated my capability to deliver impactful results in a collaborative and strategic manner.
My goal during the second year of my fellowship is to successfully continue to manage the Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council and work closely with the Office of Health Aging (OHA). I will be focusing on continuing to sharpen my skills through the ample opportunities that the Executive Fellowship has opened for me and to make meaningful connections.
Mariah Horton
Senior Fellow
Office of Strategic Initiatives
Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, I earned my Master of Public Health from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and my Bachelor of Public Health from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Over the past year, I assisted in the implementation of the Community of Practice Summits. I contributed to the creation of briefs on Early Relational Health and the Social Determinants of Health while also developing a team one-pager. Additionally, I assisted in grant reporting and writing the annual Community Health Assessment (CHA) report. I also had the opportunity to present on Positive Childhood Experiences and Early Relational Health while helping create a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) training.
In my second year, I will be focusing on three key areas. The first is evaluating and improving the CHIP training. The second is reformatting the CHIP training from an in-person to virtual. The third is becoming a subject matter expert in Positive Childhood Experiences and Early Relational Health and creating more educational materials around these topics.
My participation in these tasks has deepened my understanding of public health within state government while enabling me to deliver meaningful contributions to the department. I am excited to continue into a second year, eager to further expand my skill set and continue to make an impact.
Dietetic Internships WIC Rotation
We offer dietetic interns the opportunity to complete a WIC rotation in many of our rural county health departments throughout the state. For a placement with a metro health department, interns should contact the metro nutrition director and follow the process in place for the specific metro health department. If your academic program is interested in partnering with TDH, a faculty member will follow these steps:
Review Active Affiliation Agreements
If your school or program is not listed, complete an application for agreement. Submit application. Follow the link to the application for agreement. Follow the instructions, complete the application, and submit it.Review application status. Once an application is submitted, you will be updated on its status. We cannot guarantee all applications will be approved.
Plan Rotations
When an agreement is fully executed, contact the regional nutrition director in your area to plan the student rotations. The contact information for nutrition directors is provided below.
Students who are interested in a dietetic rotation with TDH should reach out to their faculty internship advisor to coordinate their rotation.
Active Affiliation Agreements
Below are all active affiliation agreements for dietetic/nutrition internships with the Department of Health. For institutions with a current agreement, a new application is not required.
| Institution | Discipline | End Date |
| Auburn University | WIC/Dietetic Internship | 6/30/2026 |
| Gulf Coast | WIC/Dietetic Internship | 10/14/2029 |
| Iowa State University | WIC/Dietetic Internship | 3/25/2030 |
| NHC Dietetic Internship | WIC/Dietetic Internship | 8/29/2029 |
| Nutrition Ink | WIC/Dietetic Internship | 11/03/2029 |
| Tennessee Technical University | WIC/Dietetic Internship | 6/30/2026 |
| University of New England | WIC/Dietetic Internship | 7/31/2030 |
| University of Tennessee, Martin | WIC/Dietetic Internship | 6/30/2026 |
| Western Kentucky University | WIC/ Dietetic Internship | 07/31/2030 |
Tennessee Regional Nutrition Directors
Regional Contacts
East:
Alexa Dukes, MS, RD, LDN, CLC
p. 865-549-5350
c. 865-599-3280
alexa.dukes@tn.gov
Mid Cumberland:
Ila Mae Avitia, RDN, CLC
p. 615-650-7026
ilamae.avitia@tn.gov
Northeast:
Shannon Roark, MS, RDN, CLC
p. 423-979-4597
c. 423-202-6404
Shannon.roark@tn.gov
South Central:
Jennifer Eastep, MS, RD, LDN
p. 931-490-8336
c. 931-384-9163
jennifer.eastep@tn.gov
Southeast:
Elizabeth Held, RDN, LDN, CLC
p. 423-201-8027
Elizabeth.held@tn.gov
Upper Cumberland:
Carey Workman, MS, RD, LDN, CLC
p. (931) 646-7512
c. (931) 265-4197
carey.workman@tn.gov
West:
Amy Riggins, MS, RD, LDN, CLC, IBCLC
p. 731-421-6762
c. 731-697-1518
Amy.Riggins@tn.gov
*Updated 01.17.2024
Metro Contacts
Davidson:
Kelly Whipker, RDN, LDN, IBCLC
p. 615-340-0493
kelly.whipker@nashville.gov
Hamilton:
Jennifer Scanlan de Salmeron, RD, LDN, IBCLC
p. 423-209-8315
JenniferS@hamiltontn.gov
Knox:
Sarah (Lisson) Waldrupe, MS, MPH, RDN, LDN
p. 865-215-5052
sarah.waldrupe@knoxcounty.org
Madison:
Bonnie Webster, RD
p. 731-423-3020, ext. 2134
bwebster@madisoncountytn.gov
Shelby:
Edward Han, MS, RD, LDN, CLC
p. 901-222-9330
edward.han@shelbycountytn.gov
Sullivan:
Sutton Davis, MS, RDN, LD, CLC
p. 423-279-2782
c. 423-306-6017
sdavis@sullivanhealth.org
*Updated 01.17.2024
This Page Last Updated: March 26, 2026 at 3:41 PM