Meredith Gaffney

Director Gaffney has over 25 years of experience in the primary and public health fields. She first earned her BA in International Relations from Ohio State University and her Master’s in Public Health (MPH) from Tulane University. Later, she pursued postgraduate studies abroad in Medical Parasitology at Universidade Nova de Lisboa and the Psychosocial Experiences and Needs of Refugees at Oxford University. She joined the UB faculty in November 2020 and is currently a doctoral candidate.

Director Gaffney’s career is a testament to her hands-on approach in the global healthcare sector. She has successfully planned projects and managed grants with renowned organizations like UNICEF and USAID. Her impactful work extends to the grassroots level, where she has made a difference through her contributions to organizations such as Planned Parenthood of Southern New England and Save the Children.

Director Gaffney’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should be inclusive, equitable, and engaging, fostering critical thinking and real-world application. This philosophy is reflected in the MPH curriculum, which goes beyond the core and foundational public health competencies. In 2024, the MPH program integrated the Including People with Disabilities: Public Health Workforce Competencies into the curriculum in partnership with the Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service at UCONN. The MPH program further enhances this by utilizing the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and integrating real-world experiences into the curriculum, ensuring every student feels valued and included.

These principles are executed through an incredibly fantastic group of diverse and dedicated professors. These professionals bridge the gap between theory and practice, sharing firsthand experiences with the latest technologies, challenges, and ethical considerations in the public health field.

A professional genuinely devoted to her field, Director Gaffney is humbled to work with such an excellent public health community. In her spare time, she has volunteered her expertise to various organizations, from the United States Peace Corps, the Branford Land Trust, the Branford Board of Education, and the Girls Scouts of America.