Class of 2026 Results

Esther Guerreo

Southwest Detroit roots inspire public health journey

Esther Guerrero, MPH ’26

Focused on health behavior, equity, and maternal nutrition, Esther Guerrero, who is earning a Master of Public Health in Health Behavior & Health Equity, transforms lived experience into innovative health communications, advocacy, and leadership—empowering the Detroit community for a healthier, brighter future.

Liying Chen, wearing glasses and a green parka, with a waterfall in the background at Yosemite National Park

Finding clarity in numbers and community

Liying Chen, MS ’20, PhD ’26

Michigan Public Health Biostatistics PhD student Liying Chen transforms clinical medicine experience into impactful public health research. Chen harnesses statistics, AI, and big data for cancer, mental health, and substance use, supported by a diverse community and renowned mentorship.

Closeup of Sydney McKinnon smiling

Senior lands full-time position at Eli Lilly before graduation

Sydney McKinnon, BA ’26

University of Michigan School of Public Health senior Sydney McKinnon’s journey from dental assistant in high school to public health advocate led her to a full-time job at Eli Lilly before graduation. Discover how curiosity, networking and a holistic college experience helped McKinnon succeed and inspire others through public health and pharmaceutical sales.

Owen Chun

CDC Scholar combines microbiology and public health through leadership

Owen Chun, BS ’26

University of Michigan senior Owen Chun earned a CDC John R. Lewis Scholarship, taught himself database coding to help communities access HIV resources, and leads 80 students in public health advocacy. Discover how this dual-degree student combines microbiology and public health through research, leadership and community engagement.

Sophia Steinert

Extending an internship into a yearlong learning experience

Sophia Steinert, BA ’26

Senior Sophia Steinert, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Community and Public Health, extended her summer healthcare internship into a year-long opportunity and secured another position for next summer. Learn how the public health student's proactive approach to internships and early planning is building her career in healthcare administration before graduation.