Ramine Alexander joined the UNC Nutrition Research Institute as Research Project Manager. Dr. Alexander received her Ph.D. and MPH, from Virginia Tech. As an intervention scientist, her research interest includes utilizing Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) to improve lifestyle risk factors (i.e., diet and physical activity) that have a direct relevance to obesity and chronic disease. Through CBPR approaches a primary goal of her work is to involve the voice of the community in the research process to promote intervention sustainability. Dr. Alexander has a passion for building health equity, conducting research on the social determinants of health, and using innovative approaches to communicate science.

Aaliyah is a first-year graduate student pursuing her MPH in Applied Epidemiology at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. After earning her undergraduate degree from UNC in Global Studies and Public Policy, she worked to administer digital health interventions aimed toward health behavior change and improving chronic disease outcomes. Prior to joining the Living F.R.E.E. Lab, Aaliyah worked in research analyzing and evaluating issues and trends that impact U.S. health policy and health care delivery. She hopes to bring her studies and work with the Lab together to advance her knowledge in improving health outcomes in communities of color.

Myneesha King is excited to join the team as the new Social/Clinical Research Specialist. Myneesha is a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University’s Professional Theatre Department. Her background includes Education, Social Services, Pilot Program Management and Human Resources. Myneesha taught middle and high school theatre in both Charlotte Mecklenburg and Cabarrus County Schools. Her passion remains for community outreach and the development of underserved populations. Myneesha enjoys spending time with her family and exploring cultural events in her spare time.

Wehazit is a junior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill studying Medical Anthropology on a Pre-Dental track in hopes of becoming a pediatric dentist. She serves as a Research Assistant in Dr. Goode’s lab where she can contribute to research that she is truly passionate about regarding issues that have long been underrepresented for people of color. Wehazit enjoys making pottery, practicing yoga, and reading in her spare time.