First graduate of Master of Public Health program reflects on his academic career and global health initiatives – News

Mahalia Jackson ’23, MPH ’24, made history this summer by becoming the first graduate of Illinois State University’s new Master of Public Health (MPH) program.

“It honestly feels great,” Jackson said. “I cried when they first told me because I really never thought I would be the first.”

Jackson is originally from Jamaica and moved to the United States at a young age. She is the first in her family to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree, an achievement that holds great significance for her.

“My mother worked as a nanny for over 20 years and my stepfather worked hard,” Jackson said. “To be the first in my family to receive this honor – it was surreal.”

Jackson’s decision to pursue her master’s degree at Illinois State was based on her close connection to the university’s faculty and staff. After switching her major to public health as an undergraduate, she found a close-knit community that supported her through her undergraduate and graduate programs.

“The small classes and supportive teachers were great for me,” she said. “I was able to turn to my professors with any questions and really valued the relationships that developed.”

One of the most transformative aspects of Jackson’s graduate experience was her participation in an Alternative Breaks program in Kenya. Through a partnership with Living Positive Kenya (LPK), Jackson completed her MPH professional experience while gaining invaluable practical experience.

LPK, a non-governmental organization based in the Ngong Hills of southern Kenya, focuses on supporting HIV-positive women and their children.

“Living Positive Kenya is closely linked to public health because it addresses social determinants of health, which I have learned so much about,” Jackson said.

She noted that her work at LPK allowed her to apply her academic knowledge in real-world situations. The organization not only focuses on providing HIV medications, but also addresses vital needs such as shelter, food and clothing.

“Global health and communicable diseases have always fascinated me,” Jackson said. “When I heard about this opportunity, I knew it would be a perfect fit for my passion and career goals.”

During her time in Kenya, Jackson made lasting connections with both the local community and Illinois State faculty. She thanks Kelly Hasselbring, alternative recess coordinator for the state of Illinois, for helping her secure the position through the Center for Civic Engagement.

“She taught me so much about civic engagement and volunteerism,” Jackson said. “She always checked in with me and we had so many great conversations during the trip.”

Now home in Evanston, Jackson is looking forward to the next chapter of her professional life. She has been actively interviewing for Peace Corps positions in hopes of focusing on health education in a global setting.

“I’m excited to get into this field because public health is something I really care about,” she said. “For me, it’s not just a degree – it’s what I want to do with my life.”

As the first graduate of Illinois State University’s MPH program, Jackson’s career reflects the impact of dedication, mentorship and a global perspective.

“I am so grateful for every connection I have made and the experiences I have had at ISU,” she said. “You have made me the person I am today and I can’t wait to see where my passion for public health takes me next.”