Member of the Month: Shanise Owens

Shanise Owens
Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
University of Washington School of Public Health

What discipline(s) does your research fall under?

My research broadly falls within public health and epidemiology. I focus on structural determinants of health, mental health access and service delivery, and policy evaluation, with an emphasis on advancing health equity for marginalized populations.

What other disciplines pique your interest? Are there additional disciplines you are interested in incorporating in your own research?

I am particularly interested in incorporating health economics and the biological sciences into my work, including life course development and genomics. I am drawn to interdisciplinary approaches that integrate social, economic, behavioral, and biological perspectives to better understand and address population health disparities.

What is your favorite thing about IAPHS?

What I value most about IAPHS is its commitment to bringing together scholars across disciplines who share a common goal of improving population health. In addition to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, IAPHS has demonstrated a strong organizational ethos, including a clear stance against injustice and discrimination. This commitment aligns closely with advancing population health and reducing disparities for marginalized communities.

What brought you to IAPHS?

I was initially introduced to IAPHS by my research supervisor, Dr. Jesse Jones-Smith. She is deeply committed to interdisciplinary research focused on understanding how population health science can inform programs and policies for marginalized communities. Through her mentorship, I was introduced to IAPHS and connected with a community of like-minded researchers working across disciplines to advance population heath.

Will you be at the conference this year?

Yes, I plan to attend the 2026 conference. I am excited to reconnect with my colleagues and meet new ones during the annual conference this year.

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy sailing, reading, and hosting dinner parties for family and friends.

What’s something that recently made you smile?

Spring is my favorite season, and I love seeing the blossoming flowers and trees, especially the cherry blossoms.

What book or movie have you recently read/seen and why would you recommend it?

One book I read this year that I would recommend is The Next Conversation by Jefferson Fisher. It offers practical insights into effective communication, particularly the importance of listening. Communication is powerful yet underrated skill, and this book provides helpful guidance on how to develop it intentionally.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever heard?

“When people tell you who they are, believe them the first time.”
–Maya Angelou

If readers want to reach you, what’s the best way to contact you?

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanise-owens/
Email: sowens@tpchd.org