Olivia Carter-Pokras, MHS, PhD

Olivia Carter-Pokras, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Health and Human Performance, University of Maryland College Park.  Dr. Carter-Pokras has conducted health disparities research in the Federal government (21+ years) and academia (4+ years). Her research has mainly focused on the intersection of epidemiology and health policy to address Latino health and children's environmental health. 
 

Prior to joining the faculty at the University of Maryland College Park, Dr. Carter-Pokras was an Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine where she currently serves as adjunct faculty. She is also the previous Director of the Division of Policy and Data at the Office of Minority Health, Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Carter-Pokras has been recognized by the Surgeon General, Assistant Secretary for Health and Latino Caucus of the American Public Health Association for her career achievements to improve racial and ethnic data and develop national health policy.

Dr. Carter-Pokras is the Principal Investigator for a NHLBI cultural competency and health disparities academic award at the University of Maryland. She is currently conducting health assessments of Latinos in Baltimore and Montgomery County in close partnership with local government and community-based organizations. Dr. Carter-Pokras is a fellow of the American College of Epidemiology, and member of the Executive Board of the American Public Health Association.