Madison Murphy, Project Coordinator in the Department of Health Policy and Behavioral Sciences, says that although the projects she works on address a range of health outcomes and issues across different populations, they all share a strong foundation in community engagement.
When did you join the School of Public Health, and what do you enjoy about working here?
I became a staff member in the School of Public Health shortly after completing my MPH in January 2024. What I enjoy most about working in the School of Public Health is, without a doubt, the people. I feel fortunate to work alongside such dedicated and inspiring faculty, staff and students who are deeply committed to advancing public health and supporting one another along the way. As a young professional, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from them and to be guided by their example.
What’s a typical workday for you like?
When I arrive on campus, I start my day by checking my email for new messages and updating my to-do list. I also review my calendar to prepare for upcoming meetings. I typically begin the morning with time-sensitive tasks and finish the day with projects that demand more concentration and creativity. My responsibilities are fairly flexible, so my daily tasks vary. However, my role generally involves coordinating and leading meetings with community organizations, drafting content for public-facing communications, conducting data collection with participants, organizing team schedules, and assisting with data management as well as the preparation of reports and presentations.
What about your work are you most proud of?
I’m grateful to be in a position where I can contribute to research initiatives that meaningfully engage the Atlanta community. While the projects I work on address a range of health outcomes and issues across different populations, they all share a strong foundation in community engagement. This work has allowed me to meet individuals most affected by the health challenges we aim to address and to hear their stories firsthand. I’ve also had the privilege of collaborating with community leaders, nonprofit organizations and consultants with diverse areas of expertise. I take pride in the interdisciplinary nature of our work and in our team’s commitment to meeting communities where they are, supporting their efforts and strengthening impact through research.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
When I’m not at work, I enjoy staying active through rhythmic movements such as dance and yoga. Outside of my full-time role, I also work part-time as a professional cheerleader, dance instructor and choreographer. These activities give me the opportunity to unwind, express my creativity and mentor young people who share the same passion for movement and performance. I also enjoy watching reality TV shows, exploring things to do in Atlanta and spending time with friends.