Team Members

The project is supported by an impressive roster of experts from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, each bringing unique insights and expertise to the forefront of the initiative:

 

  • Michelle Hughes, PhD: Professor in Special Education and Communication Disorders, serves as the Principal Investigator (PI), steering the project’s direction and integration across disciplines.

  • Sharon Baldinelli, PhD, MPH: Assistant Professor of Practice of Advertising and Public Relations, focuses on health communication.

  • Greg Bashford, PhD: Professor in Biological Systems Engineering, contributes his expertise in bioengineering solutions to health disparities.

  • Maria Cantu-Hines, MD, MPH: Assistant Extension Educator in Rural Prosperity Nebraska, focuses on extending healthcare access to rural communities.

  • Lindsey Crawford, PhD: Assistant Professor in Biochemistry, adds a molecular perspective to understanding and addressing health issues.

  • Dipti Dev, PhD: Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in CYFS, brings insights into family and community health dynamics.

  • Hannah Ditmars, AuD: Associate Professor of Practice in Special Education and Communication Disorders, enhances the project with her experience in audiological health.

  • Nicole Iverson, PhD: Associate Professor in Biological Systems Engineering, contributes her expertise in biomedical engineering solutions.

  • Kristin Malek, PhD: Assistant Professor in Event Management, Extension Specialist, adds her experience in event management to symposium planning.

  • Eric Markvicka, PhD: Assistant Professor in Mechanical and Materials Engineering, focuses on robotics solutions to improve healthcare outcomes. 

  • Carl Nelson, PhD: Professor in Mechanical and Materials Engineering, adds his knowledge of mechanical solutions to improve healthcare technologies.

  • Bonita Sharif, PhD: Associate Professor in Software Engineering, integrates software and technology solutions to address health issues.

  • Changmin Yan, PhD: Associate Professor of Advertising and Public Relations, leverages communication strategies to promote health equity and community engagement.

This diverse team combines the fields of health, engineering, communication, and more to address health equity through innovative, interdisciplinary approaches.