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President
Shonali Makadiya
Shonali holds a Master of Public Health from Mercer University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of North Georgia. Her work focuses on grants, community development, and advancing housing stability for vulnerable populations, particularly individuals served through HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS) programs. She is committed to expanding access to critical housing resources and supportive services for people living with HIV/AIDS, recognizing the essential connection between stable housing and improved health outcomes. Through collaboration with community organizations and stakeholders, she works to strengthen program effectiveness and advocate for equitable support systems.
Her passion for public health was ignited during the COVID-19 pandemic, though it is deeply rooted in early exposure to the healthcare field through her mother’s work in medicine. These experiences shaped her commitment to addressing health disparities and supporting marginalized communities. With a strong academic foundation and practical experience in community-centered initiatives, Shonali is dedicated to advancing sustainable public health solutions that promote equity, stability, and well-being.
Immediate Past President
D’Jillisser Kelly, MPH, CP
D’Jillisser Kelly, MPH, CP, is a public health leader dedicated to advancing health equity and strengthening community-driven prevention efforts.
With more than a decade of experience in tobacco prevention, community engagement, and public health program leadership, she is passionate about empowering communities with the tools and knowledge needed to make informed health decisions.
D’Jillisser also holds a Master of Public Health in Health Promotion from Liberty University. Her leadership and commitment to prevention have been recognized through several honors, including being named the 2025 American Heart Association Knowledge Chamber Recipient and a 2023 Georgia State Power Woman. She also serves as an Expert Advisory Board Member for the Rutgers University Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies.
Through her work, D’Jillisser continues to champion collaborative public health solutions that prioritize equity, prevention, and community well-being across Georgia and beyond.
President-Elect
Hadeer Hegazy
Hadeer Hegazy is a dedicated public health professional, experienced program manager, and accomplished researcher with a strong background in healthcare economics, policy, and nutrition. She is currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Public Health (DrPH) at the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University. Hadeer holds a Master’s in Health Economics and Bachelor degree in Pharmacy. She has also obtained certification in Clinical Nutrition, further enhancing her multidisciplinary expertise in healthcare.
With over eight years of experience as an oncology clinical pharmacist and clinical nutritionist and more than seven years leading national and international public health programs in non-governmental organizations. She has been instrumental in managing large-scale nutrition and food security programs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Hadeer’s work experience spans diverse roles across academia, governmental health institutions, and international non-profits. She is currently a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant at Georgia Southern University, where she supports faculty research, conducts data analysis, and mentors students in public health disciplines.
Hadeer is an advocate for sustainable development and women’s empowerment. She was selected as a Leading African Women in Food Fellow (2024). She is also a certified trainer for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), collaborating with government agencies to promote policy coherence and effective governance.
Partnership Chair
Yoshina Bradford Colbert
A proud Atlanta native and dedicated community leader, Yoshina Colbert-Bradford blends her entrepreneurial drive with a passion for public health and advocacy. Currently pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) at Mercer University, she focuses on community health advocacy and tobacco cessation research, maintaining an impressive 3.88 GPA and anticipating graduation in May 2025.
Yoshina’s commitment to advancing health equity is evident in her numerous leadership roles. She serves as Co-chair of the Political Action Committee for Loch Lomond Estates, addressing community issues and fostering civic engagement. As Active Co-chair of the Task Force, she champions public health policy changes and organizes impactful outreach initiatives. Her role on the Fulton County Animal Welfare Board underscores her dedication to community engagement and policy oversight.
With over a decade of experience as a Realtor® certified by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and Atlanta Board of Realtors (ABR), Yoshina has combined her real estate expertise with her public health mission to foster safer, healthier communities. She has received recognition from the City Council for her outstanding community service and is a trusted resource for stakeholders at all levels.
At Hunter Hill First Missionary Baptist Church, Yoshina has served as Volunteer Community Outreach Director since 2021, creating programs to combat food insecurity and promote health education. Her mentorship with the TarWars Program and internship with Learn to Grow No to Menthol exemplify her hands-on approach to youth education and tobacco cessation advocacy.
Yoshina’s leadership is further demonstrated by her involvement in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where she participates in health and economic empowerment initiatives. Her accolades, including the Community Health Leadership Award and recognition for her church-based outreach, speak to her dedication to making a meaningful impact.
Guided by the vision of fostering safety, stability, and opportunity, Yoshina strives to bridge gaps through advocacy, policy development, and strategic collaboration, paving the way for healthier, more equitable communities across Georgia and beyond.
Partnership Chair
Shifawu Odunsi MPH, MCHES
As a public health professional with over a decade of experience, Shifawu Odunsi advances equitable health outcomes and strengthens public health systems across communities in the U.S. and globally. Her work spans HIV prevention and care, infectious disease control, policy development, partnerships, and emergency response, with a focus on improving outcomes for underserved and vulnerable populations.
Shifawu is also an officer in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps currently serving as a Public Health Advisor with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Global Health Center in Atlanta. In this role, she leads strategic policy and programmatic efforts that advance global health priorities and strengthen partnerships with policy, advocacy, and international stakeholders. Previously, Shifawu served in CDC’s Division of HIV Prevention, where she engaged in strategic planning, policy, partnership, and health equity initiatives supporting HIV prevention efforts. Her work focused on community engagement, HIV policy, PrEP access, syndemic approaches, and strengthening equitable prevention and treatment services nationwide.
Outside of her professional work, Shifawu is passionate about health education, community engagement, and volunteerism. She actively volunteers with organizations focused on women’s health, maternal and child health, health equity, and supporting unhoused populations through outreach initiatives, wellness events, and service programs for underserved communities.
As a mission-driven servant leader and lifelong learner, Shifawu is passionate about collaboration, mentorship, and empowering the next generation of public health professionals to serve with integrity, innovation, and impact.
National Delegate
Alex Crosby
Dr. Alex Crosby is Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine at Morehouse School of Medicine and worked at the CDC for 30 years. While there, he responded to numerous public health emergencies and led investigative teams that include addressing adolescent suicide clusters, civil unrest, school-associated violence, sniper attacks, firearm-related injuries due to celebratory shooting, and the public health response to hurricanes, Ebola and Coronavirus.
He has authored or co-authored over 125 publications and his work as a medical epidemiologist focuses on prevention of suicidal behavior, child maltreatment, intimate partner violence, interpersonal violence among adolescents, and assault injuries among minorities.
Dr. Alex Crosby completed medical training in Family Medicine at Howard University Hospital; General Preventive Medicine and Public Health at Morehouse School of Medicine and the Georgia Division of Public Health and epidemiology training at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Epidemic Intelligence Service.
He graduated with a BA in chemistry from Fisk University in Nashville, Tenn., an MD from Howard University’s College of Medicine in Wash., D.C., and an MPH in health administration and management from Emory University’s School of Public Health in Atlanta, Georgia.
Secretary
Mili Patel
Mili Patel holds a Master of Public Health from Mercer University and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Coastal Carolina University. She serves as a Senior Operations Analyst with the City of Atlanta’s Department of City Planning, supporting the Healthy Homes Atlanta, Lead Hazard Reduction Capacity Building, and Lead Hazard Reduction Demonstration programs.
As a financial and environmental analyst, she works on grant compliance, environmental reviews, program operations, contractor oversight, and HUD-funded initiatives that improve housing quality and reduce environmental health hazards. Her work focuses on creating healthier and safer homes by addressing issues such as lead-based paint hazards, asthma triggers, mold, pest infestations, fall risks, and other residential health and safety concerns.
In addition to her professional role, Mili is an active member of the Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation Young Professionals group, where she supports fundraising and community engagement efforts that benefit Atlanta firefighters and first responders.
Driven by a passion for public health, Mili is committed to advancing equitable, community-centered solutions that improve housing conditions, reduce health disparities, and promote healthier communities throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Advocacy Co-Chair
Zipporah Davis, MPH
Zipporah Davis is an Environmental Health and Safety Consultant with over ten years of Health and Safety experience. She is a proud graduate of Texas Southern University where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health, and a Graduate Education of Public Health graduate from Morehouse School of Medicine, MSM.
While attending MSM she was able to gain research experience as an intern for the “African American Sleep and Health Study”, a partnership with Florida State University’s doctoral graduate, Dr. Patrice Williams. It was through this opportunity that she grew to love face-to-face interviews and collecting data from willful participants. She was also able to participate in additional community outreach programs and initiatives. Zipporah is passionate about Occupational and Environmental Health, Safety, and Infrastructure. She looks forward to advocating and collaborating with SOPHE.
Advocacy Co-Chair
Akil Gregory, DrPH(c), MPH
Akil Gregory is an experienced public health worker with competencies in emergency management, data analysis, policy development, and health communications. His goal within the field is to recenter the agency and decision-making power of community members and organizations in addressing the root causes of health disparities.
Akil is an alum of Howard University and Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM), earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the respective institutions. He is also currently completing his dissertation as a Doctor of Public Health candidate at Mercer University with a concentration in Social Epidemiology. His dissertation focuses on the association between social drivers of health (health insurance, food insecurity, housing insecurity, and transportation barriers) and cardiovascular outcomes for residents in the catchment area of a student-led clinic in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Outside of work, Akil spends his time serving community organizations, working out, or going on walks with his dog.
Communication and Outreach Chair
Felicia Boodram DrPH(c), MPH, CPhT, ACE
With over 15 years of experience, Felicia is a dedicated public health leader driven by a simple but powerful goal: improving patient outcomes and closing the gaps in health equity. She currently serves as a Director of Advisory Solutions, where she works closely with health systems to optimize their pharmacy purchasing and operations. Her work ensures that these systems remain financially sustainable and fully compliant, allowing them to better serve their communities.
Felicia’s commitment to health equity extends into her advanced academic work. She is currently a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) candidate at Mercer University, where her research focuses specifically on advancing health equity. This journey builds on her deep roots in population health and her Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Georgia State University.
Beyond her professional and academic roles, Felicia is passionate about fostering an inclusive healthcare community. She is a nationally recognized faculty member and 340B subject matter expert for Apexus, and she spent several years volunteering as a patient educator at the Clarkston Community Health Center. Whether she is navigating complex health systems for patients or leading strategic initiatives, Felicia believes that the key to a healthier Georgia lies in the intersection of leadership and community-focused action.
Student Liaison
Dina Makadiya
Dina Makadiya is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health at Mercer University. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of North Georgia.
Her passion for public health was sparked during the pandemic, as she gained a deeper understanding of the many critical roles beyond bedside medicine that contribute to community well-being. This experience inspired them to pursue a career in public health, focusing on advocacy, education, and collaborative efforts to improve health outcomes.
Currently, Dina is conducting research with fellow classmates on mental health, further deepening her commitment to addressing public health challenges. As GASOPHE’s Student Liaison, she is excited to connect students with opportunities to engage in public health initiatives and build a strong network of future public health professionals.
Immediate Past President
Victoria Broussard, MEd, CHES, CPSTI
Victoria Broussard is a Senior Program Manager for a non-profit and national project. She leads development, management, and coordination for various aspects of the project and is responsible for partner engagement, technical assistance, and capacity building workstreams.
For over 15 years, Victoria has worked in grants and program management at the local and state level, including the Alabama Department of Public Health, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Morehouse School of Medicine. She has experience in providing education, training, and developing programs to prevent injury, fragile infant and child transport, teen pregnancy prevention, and smoking cessation.
Victoria is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and special needs trained Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Instructor. She is also a member of the Safe States Alliance, Southeast and Southwest Injury Prevention Network, Georgia Child Passenger Safety Advisory Board, the Society for Public Health Education and the American Public Health Association. Victoria has an MEd in Health Promotion and Human Performance and is pursuing her Doctor of Public Health.
Advocacy Chair
Keri M. Hill, Ph.D., CHES
In 2024, Dr. Keri Hill launched She Soars to address the critical needs of youth and young adult communities facing the largest disparities. By engaging young people as collaborative partners, She Soars focuses on fostering emotional well-being and promoting healthier, more resilient families.
Keri has 25 years of experience in community-based health promotion, K-12 education, and higher education. Her nonprofit experience includes serving as Vice President and Director of Programs for Atlanta-based organizations dedicated to reducing health disparities for Black women and families and empowering youth.
Keri is an adjunct public health professor at Agnes Scott College, former Assistant Professor for Kennesaw State University, and former high school teacher for Atlanta Public Schools. She holds a Ph.D. in Education Curriculum & Instruction, a Master of Public Health, and a Bachelor of Science in Community Health. Additionally, she is a Certified Health Education Specialist and has earned certificates in Nonprofit Management, Professional Inclusive Leadership, and Wellness Coaching.
Partnership Co-Chair
Fredrick Clark, Student Health and Wellness, Morehouse School of Medicine
Fredrick Clark is a proud native of downtown Atlanta, GA. He completed his undergraduate studies at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT), where he majored in Political Science/Public Policy and minored in Education with a focus in Public Health. Fredrick is currently an Executive Master of Public Health student focusing on community health for underserved young people.
He is an educator, active community/non-profit member, and public service advocate with more than 12 years of experience (in and out of the secondary education classroom and not-for-profit sector) concerning infectious disease epidemics, formal healthcare practices, and clinical knowledge. As the Founder and CEO of Youth Embracing Sobriety, Inc., he aims to eliminate educational, social, and health-related issues around the world, one student, one young person, and one disparity at a time!
Communications & Outreach Co-Chair
Vacant
Student Liaison
Elizabeth Burchfield
Elizabeth is a student at Kennesaw State University working on her Bachelor’s of Public Health before pursuing a Master’s of Epidemiology. Currently, she works on homelessness prevention for Decatur to serve the surrounding community. She has conducted various research and programs revolving around food security outreach and food desert prevention education to elementary school children while assisting with Decatur Cooperative Ministry’s food pantry.
In past years, Elizabeth has worked with women’s sports involvement programs with collegiate rugby and has received training certifications in policy analysis, engagement and capacity building, and communications concepts to change risky behavior. Additionally, in effort to aid her college, she has assisted in research introduction courses, represented her program in student outreach events, and has presented yearly to the Symposium of Student Scholars at Kennesaw State University. Her current research is focused on housing accessibility in Georgia with the aim of making progress towards updating grant availability to go towards rent and utility assistance programs in order to decrease the rate of homelessness in her community.