March 4, 2019

Dr. Cleo Samuel

Dr. Cleo Samuel

Cleo A. Samuel, PhD, assistant professor of health policy and management at UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, was chosen by the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) as one of 40 next-generation leaders in minority health under the age of 40.

“Here at the NMQF, we are truly excited about this next class of honorees and recognizing them at our annual leadership summit,” said Gary Puckrein, PhD, NMQF president and chief executive officer. “The 2019 winners are doing amazing things that both better and diversify the health care marketplace. They serve as positive role models for our next generation of leaders in minority health.”

Robin Kelly, congressional representative from Illinois, is chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust, co-sponsor of the awards.

“In 2019, it’s unacceptable that health disparities still exist across our country,” Kelly said. “I know that these new leaders are on the front lines working to realize the dream of eliminating health disparities, within a generation. Their fresh ideas, new approaches and innovate solutions will lead to decreases in health inequalities for minority communities who have suffered for too long without adequate or equal access to care.”

Morris Weinberger, PhD, Vergil N. Slee Distinguished Professor of Healthcare Quality Management and chair of the Gillings School’s Department of Health Policy and Management, said that Samuel personifies the type of person deserving of the award.

“Dr. Samuel is a rising star who is committed to a career that will promote health equity and social justice through her research, teaching and service,” Weinberger said. “She is destined for a long and successful career conducting relevant health services research that improves the care of and outcomes for patients who could benefit from supportive and palliative care. Her commitment to reduce racial disparities is a high priority for the nation.”

Samuel said she was humbled and pleased by the award.

“My career in health care equity began 13 years ago, and my commitment to this work runs deep,” Samuel said. “To be recognized in this way is a huge honor for me. I look forward to engaging with the NMQF, members of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust, and other 40-Under-40 leaders in minority health to advance equity in health care access and quality.”

Samuel will accept her award at the 2019 National Minority Quality Forum Leadership Summit on Health Disparities and Congressional Black Caucus Spring Health Braintrust Gala Dinner on April 9 in Washington, D.C.


Share

Contact the Gillings School of Global Public Health communications team at sphcomm@listserv.unc.edu.

RELATED PAGES
CONTACT INFORMATION
Visit our communications and marketing team page.
Contact sphcomm@unc.edu with any media inquiries or general questions.

Communications and Marketing Office
125 Rosenau Hall
CB #7400
135 Dauer Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7400