It is my great pleasure to introduce Dr. LaDrea Ingram, EdD, LCASA, LCMHCA, CADC, CHES, who will be joining Prairie View A&M University through the ASCEND Initiative Program, a collaborative effort with Yale University School of Public Health. Dr. Ingram is an accomplished scholar-practitioner with a wealth of expertise in public health, mental health counseling, and health equity, making her a vital addition to our academic community. Dr. Ingram’s academic background is both distinguished and diverse. With advanced degrees in health education, clinical mental health counseling, and public health policy from Johns Hopkins, Columbia University, University of North Carolina, and George Mason University, Dr. Ingram has cultivated a rich academic background that informs her commitment to advancing health perspectives.
Dr. Ingram serves as a Research Associate Scientist at Yale School of Public Health, where she plays a key role in advancing health equity through research and practice. Her focus is on developing culturally responsive interventions for mental health and substance abuse issues, particularly in underserved and marginalized communities. In addition, she is an Instructor at Yale, where she teaches Evidence-Based Decision-Making in Public Health, sharing her expertise with the next generation of public health leaders.
Beyond her academic roles, Dr. Ingram is the founder of the Gatherings NetWork, a regional initiative that promotes health equity through faith-based and intergenerational programs. Her leadership in projects like the “We Lift Us” Community Gathering Space exemplifies her dedication to creating community-driven solutions for health disparities. Dr. Ingram’s contributions to the field have earned her national recognition, including her selection as a Culture of Health Leader by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the National Collaborative for Health Equity. This prestigious award, given to just 40 individuals across the country, highlights her exceptional leadership in addressing health inequities and fostering community resilience. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ingram to our campus for the 2024-2025 academic year. Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Dr. LaDrea Ingram.