The Epsilon Pi Chapter of the Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health at Michigan State University is pleased to announce the College of Human Medicine’s spring 2025 inductees. Each year, Delta Omega elects new students, faculty, alumni, and honorary members based on high academic standards and outstanding performance in scholarship, teaching, research, and community service. Election of membership in Delta Omega is intended to recognize merit and encourage further excellence in and devotion to public health work.
Founded in 1924, Delta Omega is a national honor society existing to encourage research and scholarship among graduate students of public health and to recognize attainment and achievement in the field of public health. With over 130 active chapters, Delta Omega and its members are dedicated to ensuring the quality of the field of public health and to the protection and advancement of the health of all people.
“Becoming part of the Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health enables us to recognize our exemplary Master of Public Health students,” said Sharia Phillips, D. Ed, Culminating Experience Coordinator. “We want to congratulate the inductees and look forward to seeing where the future takes them.”
Master of Public Health faculty welcomed the inductees on February 19, 2025. The inductees are:
Anna Pantuso | MPH Candidate, Spring 2025
While earning her undergraduate degree, Anna became interested in public health and decided to pursue an MPH before attending medical school. In order to become the best physician she could possibly be, she wanted to understand health care from a different perspective other than her own.
“I chose medicine because I aspire to be an advocate for patients and give them the best possible outcome. This program has equipped me with the tools to continue to pursue my aspirations and dreams.”
Sean Mills | MPH Candidate, Fall 2024
As a participant on both the Public Health in Ghana program and the Adanu service-learning experience, Sean has always been open to new experiences. He is currently studying for the certification in public health exam while he awaits the board selection process to join the U.S. Air Force as a public health officer.
“I look forward to utilizing my public health knowledge to serve a mission prioritizing leadership, preparedness, and prevention for our armed forces.”
Jennifer Thompson | Alumna, MPH '20
Jennifer is currently a PhD candidate in epidemiology with a minor in behavioral health at the University of Texas Health Science Center, set to defend her dissertation in July 2025. She is active in several professional organizations working to support public health in violence prevention and mental health.
“The MSU MPH program was instrumental in developing my confidence as a researcher. I developed a strong interest in teaching and mentorship – something I hope to pursue upon completion of my doctoral program.”
Kathleen Lertzman | Alumna, MPH '24
Kathleen serves as the network liaison for a rare disease foundation, fostering the growth of family and clinical networks while providing overall support to the organization. She is also a research assistant for Dr. Rodlescia Sneed and the Institute of Gerontology at Wayne State University, focusing on psychology research.
“The program provided many meaningful academic and personal opportunities but, perhaps most importantly, gave me the direction and support I needed for the next stage of my career.”
Erika Karoll | Alumna, MPH '23
Erika is a research assistant for Dr. Rodlescia Sneed, working on a study analyzing the barriers and facilitators of volunteerism for Black, older adults living in metro Detroit. She is also working as a medical assistant in a dermatology clinic and is currently applying to physician assistant programs.
“I am looking forward to bringing a unique, public health perspective to the program and my future practice.”
Nominations were based on academic excellence and commitment to public health service as evidenced by scholarly, community, and/or employment activities, and qualities that align with the department’s values. Each of the five inductees demonstrated innovation and academic excellence, health equity and diversity, community partnership, leadership development, and global impact.
February 20, 2025
