UW–Madison’s Brittney Pemberton, a doctoral student in the School of Education’s Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, has been selected to participate in one of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s leadership programs. These programs connect changemakers across the country — from diverse professions and fields — to learn from and work with one another in creating more just and thriving communities.
Specifically, Pemberton has been selected to participate in the Health Policy Research Scholars (HPRS) program. Designed for doctoral students from historically marginalized backgrounds and populations underrepresented in specific disciplines, Health Policy Research Scholars helps students from all fields apply their work to policies that advance equity and health while building a diverse network of leaders who reflect our changing national demographics.
As a member of the program’s newest cohort, Pemberton will focus on improving the livelihood of Black women academics through a shared “culture of health.”
“Being a part of the HPRS program grants me access to a network of equity-driven scholars who deeply care about the health and well-being of the communities we seek to serve,” Pemberton says. “I would not be where I am today without the support of my UW–Madison community who have challenged and affirmed my work in ways that have continued to make me a stronger scholar.”
Pemberton’s mentor, Rachelle Winkle-Wagner, states that “the Health Policy Research Scholars program connects Pemberton’s cutting-edge research agenda and our institution to a large group of scholars nationally who are conducting path breaking interdisciplinary scholarship.”
“Together,” she adds, “this body of work promises to change the face of health, policy, and education so that students, faculty, and staff can work and learn within higher education institutions without becoming sick.”
Learn more about Pemberton’s research.