Student Spotlight: Vivianna Lindley, MPH '26
A Story of Resilience, Discovery, and Purpose in Public Health
For Vivianna Lindley, public health isn’t just a career path, it’s a calling born from personal roots.
Growing up, Vivianna describes surviving challenges of isolation, economic insecurity, abuse, and lack of formal education. It wasn’t until she began working at her local public health department as an adult that she discovered the framework that would give language to her lived experience: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Developed and researched within the field of public health, ACEs became more than an academic term to Vivianna. They became a revelation.
“It was this realization that first ignited my interest in public health,” Vivianna says. “I wanted to be part of a field that acknowledges and works to prevent the kinds of harm I experienced as a child.”
When Vivianna decided to pursue her Master of Public Health, she needed a program that could accommodate a full-time work schedule. But flexibility alone wasn’t enough. Vivianna was searching for depth and community. “There were many online programs available, but Dartmouth stood out. Its curriculum’s focus on health equity was something unique.”
She was especially drawn to the Hybrid MPH program, which combines online learning with on-campus sessions designed to foster community. “That emphasis on building a cohort of peers, of forming friendships and professional networks, was really important to me.”
What she didn’t anticipate was just how transformative that community would be.
“This has been my first truly collaborative learning experience,” she reflects. “I’ve been amazed by how much I’ve learned from my fellow students and how meaningful those relationships have become. I believe the experiences I’ve had and the friendships I’ve built here will continue to shape my life long after graduation.”
Academically, Vivianna found new passion and purpose. “I discovered a love for research and quality improvement,” she says. “Learning how these tools can be used to drive health equity has reshaped my career goals.”
Once focused on health policy, her ambitions have changed. “Now, I hope to work in research and quality improvement, helping design or evaluate programs that address health inequities. I’m currently gaining hands-on research experience through my practicum, and I hope to continue working with that site after graduation as I apply for research-focused roles.”
On advice for new students, Vivianna shares, “Don’t let the normal stresses of school and life get in the way of enjoying the amazing community and learning opportunities at Dartmouth. This experience has been one of the best in my life. I’ve found my people here, and I know I’ll be part of this community long after graduation.”
As for something to explore beyond the classroom? “Visit the Rauner Special Collections Library!” she shares. “They have an amazing collection of public health history. I spent time there going through historical documents, including a centuries-old ledger listing causes of death like ‘purple,’ and ‘gripping of the guts.’ It was unforgettable.”
From overcoming childhood adversity to shaping a healthier future, Vivianna’s journey into public health is a reminder of the power of purpose.
Written by: Mia Soucy
POSTED 10/8/2025 AT 02:28 PM IN #studentspotlight #hybridmph #2025
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