School of Health Sciences

The University of New Haven is proud to recognize the 2025–2026 John D. Hatfield Scholars, an exceptional group of Honors students recognized for their academic strength, leadership, and commitment to serving the community. Made possible through the generosity of the Bartels family, the Hatfield Scholars Program continues to reflect the legacy of Dr. John D. Hatfield, University’s first executive vice president, provost, and chief operating officer, legacy supporting students who strive to create meaningful change.

To me, being a Hatfield Scholar is a recognition that my hard work both inside and outside the classroom is recognized by more than my professors and my loved ones. Celebrating with my peers and realizing our accomplishments in research and our personal lives was an eye-opening experience. I am grateful for the support we receive from each other, our faculty, and our families. The scholarship has helped me be able to continue to live on campus in my junior year, enabling me to be close to the club I have created as well as campus life. It has also allowed me to adjust my college experience, graduating a semester early and continuing to do what I love.

At the University of New Haven, I am most proud of my involvement with the Inkwell Poets Society, an organization I created my first year and have since served as the President. Some of my closest friends and I worked together to build this organization from the ground up, bringing poetry to the campus community. Other than poetry, my main academic interest lies in the fields of immunology and immunohematology, otherwise known as blood bank. After graduating I wish to become a medical laboratory scientist within the Blood Bank and eventually return to graduate school and work in academia. I also aim to complete research similar to that of my Honors Thesis to ensure that individuals receiving transfusions are protected from adverse side effects. I am beyond grateful for this title and every responsibility that comes with it.

This year, three University of New Haven Master of Healthcare Administration alumni earned highly sought-after fellowship placements. Each has taken a unique path into the profession, and they all share the goal of advancing healthcare systems in ways that improve care, strengthen communities, and create sustainable change.

Stepping into an Administrative Fellowship at Connecticut Orthopedics has been a true turning point in my career. This fellowship represents the opportunity to apply years of academic study in a setting where patients truly come first. The transition from classroom learning to real-world impact is both humbling and energizing, offering me the space to contribute meaningfully while continuing to grow as a leader. It feels real. Finally.

What excites me most is the opportunity to be able to sit at the same table with talented physicians, administrators, and support staff who tirelessly demonstrate their commitment to delivering exceptional care every day. Watching their dedication up close makes it impossible not to get pulled into the culture here that is built on teamwork, innovation, and accountability to the communities we serve.

Three Master of Public Health candidates from the University of New Haven had the opportunity to present their research at the New England Rural Health Association (NERHA) Annual Conference in Mystic, Connecticut. This marked their first time showcasing work they developed through the WeEmbody Lab, a research initiative dedicated to improving the health of marginalized communities across the country.

Attending this conference deepened my understanding of rural health and the challenges rural populations face, especially with limited access to healthcare. The research shared by others opened my eyes to these pressing issues, motivating me to shift my focus toward improving health outcomes in rural areas. This experience has inspired me to pursue solutions for better healthcare access and sparked a passion for working on health equity in underserved communities.

This was my second time presenting at a conference, but my first time sharing research in the United States. One of the most eye-opening moments was learning about ageism, which gave me a new perspective. I connected with people who share similar goals and had the chance to explore some fascinating work in public health.