When I think about what it means to be a public health change agent, I envision a ripple effect—a single action creating waves that extend far beyond what the eye can see. That’s the power of public health: small, intentional efforts that lead to meaningful, systemic change. As a proud Spartan and a graduate of the Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Michigan State University, I carry this belief with me in every facet of my work.

Many people think of public health as just government agencies or giant health care systems, but in reality, it’s people like us—working every day to help communities thrive and to advocate. Whether it’s advocating for clean water, air, and food or making healthy living more accessible to everyone, public health is woven into our daily lives in ways people often don’t realize. I frequently compare public health work to planting a tree. Some people might only see the seed in the soil, but I see the forest it will become. This perspective fuels my commitment to making a tangible difference.

My journey into public health was not linear. I started in health care administration, where I learned the intricacies of systems and policies that shape health care access and outcomes. But for me, something was missing. I wanted to be more than a facilitator of processes; I wanted to be a catalyst for change. The MPH program provided me with that spark, equipping me with the knowledge and tools to challenge disparities, advocate for equity, and implement solutions that address the root causes of health inequities.

One of the most defining moments in my public health journey was working with Dr. Amber Pearson’s research team in Detroit and Flint, Michigan. Through research and direct engagement with the community, I witnessed firsthand the lasting impact of the water crisis. This was not just about contaminated water—it was about trust, justice, and systemic failure. Being able to work directly with affected communities was a deeply meaningful experience that strengthened my understanding of public health’s role in crisis response. It also gave me invaluable hands-on experience before transitioning into my current role. The experience reinforced the urgency of public health intervention, not as an afterthought but as a proactive, community-centered approach to well-being. It also reminded me that being a change agent means listening to those most affected and amplifying their voices in meaningful ways.

What makes Spartans change agents unique is our relentless drive to challenge the status quo. We do not accept inequities as inevitable. We push boundaries, collaborate across disciplines, and find innovative solutions to persistent problems. Public health is not just a profession; it is a calling—a responsibility to ensure that every individual, regardless of background, has the opportunity to live a healthy, dignified life.

The MPH program taught me that change does not always happen in grand, sweeping motions. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet moments—the difficult conversations, the community meetings, the behind-the-scenes advocacy—that transformation takes root. Being a public health change agent requires resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in the power of collective action.

As I continue my journey, I am inspired by the legacy of those who have paved the way and energized by the next generation of Spartan public health professionals. The work is not easy, but it is necessary. Given the challenges our society faces today and the fear that has impacted the public health world due to the state of our union, we must be bold, we must be resilient, and above all, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to equity and justice. Our ancestors and the leaders before us fought tirelessly, often under even harsher conditions. Their perseverance serves as a reminder that we, too, must press forward. And if my time at MSU has taught me anything, it’s that we Spartans are built for the challenge.

So, to anyone considering a career in public health or wondering how they can make a difference—start where you are, use what you have, and never underestimate the impact of your actions. The ripples you create today might just become the waves of change tomorrow.

Kendra Shannon, MPH '24, is a Supervising and Staff Development Educator at Michigan State University Extension.

April 8, 2025