Public Health Ambassadors

Public Health Student Organization

The goal of USCB's Public Health Student Organization (PHSO) is to promote public health to students and increase their involvement on campus and in the community. To join the Public Health Student Organization, contact John Leadem at JLEADEM@uscb.edu

Public Health students

Public Health Student Org Newsletters

Students involved in USCB's Public Health Student Organization (PHSO) produce a newsletter showcasing departmental activities, opporutnities for students, and community involvement.

Past Public Health Student Organization officers include:

Keshona Sharpe

President

"My name is Keshona Sharpe, from Walterboro, SC. I'm a junior majoring in nursing with a minor in public health. I'm the president of the Public Health Student Org. I enjoy helping people and educating them in ways that could make them do better in life! I look forward to making a difference on this campus and nearby communities as well."

TJ Ratzel

Vice President

"Hello! I'm TJ (Thomas) Ratzel. I'm a sophomore and Pre-Nursing student. I am also an Army veteran and a father to an amazing, wonderful, and kind-hearted 1st grader. I was a Combat Medic for 7 years in the Army and have been in healthcare for a little over 10 years. I am extremely excited to continue my medical career by furthering my education at USCB. I look forward to building lasting partnerships with fellow students and sharing my personal experiences regarding my healthcare career journey. My hobbies are playing video games, lacrosse, and going on adventures with my daughter."

Lacey Mueller

Communication Officer

"I am currently a junior interdisciplinary studies major with a minor in medical humanities. I am going on my second year serving the executive board of the student organization as the communications officer. My responsibilities include publicizing club activities and serving as the liaison between the club and the wider USCB population. I am hoping that this year we can connect with more students to get them involved and informed on public health not only on campus but in our community.

My future goals that I plan on pursuing with my degree include admission to a physician assistant master's program to provide a first-hand change in our country's health care system! As well as creating a non-profit to benefit women's health. My hobbies include cooking, traveling, and overall staying active in the gym."

Kari Hill

Social Media Chair

"I am a dedicated mother of two, balancing the demands of parenting with my full-time academic pursuits. My journey at USCB has been pivotal in shaping my ambitious career trajectory. I am currently working towards my bachelor’s degree in public health, complemented by a minor in medical health and humanities. My academic plan includes progressing to a Master's in Epidemiology, culminating in a dual Doctorate in Epidemiology and Environmental Health Science.

As an active participant in campus life, I hold the position of Social Media Chair in the Public Health Student Organization, and I'm a proud member of the Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society and the Social Media Club. These roles not only enrich my educational experience but also sharpen my leadership and communication skills.
My professional aspirations are to make a significant impact on global health, with the ultimate goal of working at esteemed organizations like the CDC or the World Health Organization. I firmly believe in the power of hard work, dedication, and determination to achieve one's dreams, a sentiment beautifully echoed by Eleanor Roosevelt: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." My commitment to these ideals drives me toward realizing my professional and personal goals."