Student Spotlight: Kennedy Price, MPH ’26 (Hybrid)
For Kennedy Price, the journey to public health began with a passion for serving her community and advocating for underrepresented populations. As a birth doula and maternal health advocate, Kennedy witnessed firsthand the systemic issues and disparities that shape health outcomes, particularly in maternal care. These experiences ignited her commitment to improving health equity and inspired her to pursue a Master of Public Health.
Kennedy was drawn to Dartmouth’s MPH program for its strong sense of community, focus on health equity, and dedication to hands-on learning. “I loved that Dartmouth prioritizes applied, community-based experiences through the Applied Practice Experience (APE) and Integrated Learning Experience (ILE),” she shares. “Its commitment to addressing health disparities, flexibility, and opportunities for meaningful research alongside outstanding faculty all aligned perfectly with what I was looking for.”
Throughout her time in the program, Kennedy has deepened her understanding of how research, policy, and clinical practice intersect to improve population health. Her coursework and research have strengthened her ability to serve diverse communities while shaping her goal of pursuing medicine, specifically obstetrics and gynecology, through a public health lens.
Before joining Dartmouth, Kennedy often heard about the collaborative and supportive community of the program. “I guess I shouldn’t have been too surprised,” she laughs, “but I’m so appreciative of how the faculty and my peers genuinely uplift and help one another. We truly want to see each other succeed, and that makes for an inspiring and motivating environment.”
Looking ahead, Kennedy plans to continue advancing health equity through both research and clinical care. Her long-term goal is to become a physician who integrates public health principles into medical practice and eventually open her own practice to help bridge the gap between community needs and clinical outcomes.
In addition to her studies, Kennedy will be presenting at the American Public Health Association (APHA) Annual Meeting on contributors to mental health outcomes in younger women living with pelvic organ prolapse after childbirth. Her qualitative study, conducted under the direction of Dr. Renata West Yen, explores how awareness, education, and provider communication influence mental well-being. “I’m so honored to share this work at APHA,” she says. “It’s an incredible opportunity to highlight an issue that’s often overlooked in women’s health.”
When asked what advice she’d offer future students, Kennedy emphasizes curiosity and openness:
“Stay curious and open to new opportunities! Take advantage of everything Dartmouth has to offer, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Your experiences and perspective matter.”
Written by: Mia SoucyWritten by: Mia Soucy
POSTED 11/12/2025 AT 03:44 PM IN #healthcarequality #healthoutcomes #hybridmph #mph
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