Read Carolyn’s bio. See all 40 Under 40 honorees.
Five Questions for Carolyn
1.Who or what inspired you to enter the field of public health?
My career path wasn’t something I necessarily chose, it was something I fell into. However, my father was in the Public Health Service as a dentist on an Indian reservation, so it is quite possible that he inspired me at an early age before I truly knew the definition of public health.
2. What is one of the most interesting projects you’ve worked on in public health?
Developing the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act. I started working on this bill at the age of 26 and had to navigate the complexities of the policy and politics. I created a coalition by cold calling organizations and leveraged the support of former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly. Additionally, I worked with former Senators Clinton and Dodd’s office to create a compromise legislation. The most rewarding moment came when the bill was signed into law and I received a tearful thank-you phone call from a parent who had experienced the death of their child from a rare disease.
3. What’s a story or experience that keeps you going, even when you’re feeling challenged?
In general, when I hear from congressional staff that they use ASTHO’s letters or materials to help make decisions on legislation, I know that our hard work means something.
4. As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A dentist or nurse practitioner, never a lobbyist.
5. What are the greatest challenges you face in your public health work or area of focus?
The greatest challenge I face is not having enough staff or time in the day to address all of the challenges in government affairs. At ASTHO we are constantly being asked to weigh in on various legislative proposals and also leverage the support of our members. It creates an environment where I never feel like I am doing enough as a leader but at the same time I want to protect my team from burning out.
