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Zuri Dale Zuri Dale is an infectious epidemiologist and public health scientist whose current scientific work places special emphasis on the epidemiology of infectious diseases. Zuri serves as the Executive Director of the Center for Transformative Health, where she leads with a vision grounded in health equity and community empowerment. With a strong background in public health and a deep commitment to addressing disparities in healthcare, Zuri has been instrumental in shaping the Center’s strategic direction and expanding its impact. Her leadership is characterized by a collaborative approach that brings together diverse stakeholders to drive innovative solutions for complex health challenges. Zuri is a member of the American Public Health Association, designated a Moderna Global Medical Expert, serves on the Moderna Advisory Board for COVID-19, and has held teaching assignments at Texas Southern and Princeton University. Zuri is also an Associate Editor of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Preventing Chronic Disease Journal. In her administrative role, Zuri supports the research infrastructure at Texas Southern University. She is instrumental in identifying research priorities, strategic direction, and new opportunities for the Center for Transformative Health and the TSU Institute for Urban Public Health and Housing Equity. Her current research work and interests focus on the clinical manifestations of long-COVID in patients recovered from COVID-19, showcasing her commitment to addressing the ongoing health crisis.

Kelly Morris is a registered Public Health Nurse with a passion for improving community well-being through comprehensive healthcare initiatives. After graduating from The University of Texas at Arlington, she spent the following 10 years gaining experience in various fields including mental health, organ transplant, infectious disease control, gastroenterology, and chronic disease management. She has since cultivated a deep understanding of public health principles, research, and evidence-based practices. Kelly is committed to serving diverse populations, addressing health disparities, and advocating for preventative care strategies to benefit her local communities. Kelly Morris has proudly served Texas Southern University since 2021, contributing to the university’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. She currently serves as Assistant Director of Clinical Programs and Workforce Initiatives within the Division of Research and Innovation, where she leads community-based health programming, workforce development initiatives, student engagement efforts, and strategic partnerships focused on improving access to health and social services. Additionally, she serves as Grant Manager for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grant and part-time clinical nursing instructor for Walden University.

Vee works as the CHW for Texas Southern University’s Center for Transformative Health. As a passionate community advocate, she is deeply committed to addressing home inequality in urban areas. She owns and operates a property retention business that’s dedicated to safeguarding the homesteads of seniors and veterans, ensuring they remain secure in their homesteads. In addition, Vicky hosts a thought-provoking podcast that delves into organizing anti-gentrification tactics, and educates the community on investing in tax lien properties in their neighborhoods. She also leads local workshops on preventing title theft, and health and wellness events, empowering residents with the knowledge they need to foster a sense of ownership and sustainability.

Assistant Professor, Health, Kinesiology and Sports Studies Department

Focus Area: Community-Engaged Behavioral Health

Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Social Work

Focus Area: Workforce Development & Field Placement

Visiting Assistant Professor, Mathematics Department

Focus Area: Reproducible Workflows and Data Management