Welcome to our newest team members and congratulations to faculty who received promotions
New Hires
Department of Population Health Science
Dr. Manju George
Dr. Manju George joins the Department of Population Health Science as an Assistant Professor. A cancer survivor, patient advocate and accomplished biomedical researcher, Dr. George brings a powerful combination of lived experience and scientific insight to her role. She has worked with national organizations such as COLONTOWN and the Paltown Development Foundation to elevate the patient voice in oncology and bridge communication gaps between patients and clinicians. Her expertise in clinical trial design, cancer prevention and health equity aligns deeply with the school’s mission to translate research into meaningful outcomes for communities.
Department of Preventive Medicine
Dr. Justin Turner
Dr. Justin Turner joins the Department of Preventive Medicine as Assistant Professor – Education. He will also support the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute’s outreach efforts, helping to expand community engagement and education. A board-certified internal medicine physician and the former Chief Medical Officer of the Mississippi State Department of Health, Dr. Turner brings extensive experience in clinical leadership, health equity and public health advocacy. He is the founder of TurnerCare, a primary care practice in Jackson, and has been recognized with numerous statewide awards for his service, leadership and commitment to improving health outcomes across Mississippi.
Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute for the Elimination of Health Disparities
Dr. Sherie Brock
Dr. Sherie Brock joins the Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute as a Social Worker III (LCSW). A licensed clinical social worker with 21 years of experience, Sherie has worked across healthcare, mental health, and academic settings. She has been with the University of Mississippi Medical Center since 2007, providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients and families. Sherie recently earned a Doctor of Social Work from the University of Louisville and holds master’s degrees in both Health Sciences and Social Work. Her deep expertise and commitment to advancing health equity make her a strong asset to the Institute’s mission.
Tori Robinson
Tori Robinson joins the Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute as a Population Health Specialist, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in mental health care across inpatient and outpatient settings. She has served as a therapist, case manager, and intake specialist, consistently demonstrating a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate their journeys toward wellness. Tori’s person-centered approach and dedication to community-based health interventions reflect the Bower School’s holistic vision for population health.
Promotions
 | Caroline Compretta Promotion to Professor of Preventive Medicine |
 | Bernadette Grayson Promotion to Tenured Professor of Population Health Science |
 | William Hillegass Promotion to Tenured Professor of Data Science |
 | Yunxi Zhang Promotion to Associate Professor of Data Science |