Community advisory board advances maternal health equity research

In 2025, MEWI’s Community Advisory Board continued to play a critical role in shaping population health research by fostering dialogue between researchers and community stakeholders across Mississippi. Through this collaborative model, research teams strive to ground their work in lived experience, local priorities, and community-informed solutions.

During recent MEWI-affiliated research presentations, interdisciplinary teams highlighted ongoing efforts to advance maternal health equity in the state. Population Health Sciences doctoral candidate Sabrina Alam presented research examining maternal health policymaking in Mississippi, offering insight into how policy decisions shape access and outcomes for perinatal women and families. Her work sparked thoughtful discussion around the importance of community voice in informing maternal health policy and implementation.

In a complementary presentation, Dr. Babette LaMarca and her team from the Department of Pharmacology shared research focused on the long-term health consequences of preeclampsia. Beyond presenting scientific findings, the team sought direct guidance from Community Advisory Board members on how best to engage Mississippi communities in research that is both accessible and responsive to local needs. Board members provided feedback on communication strategies, trust-building, and culturally informed engagement approaches that can strengthen community-centered research efforts.

These presentations underscore the value of MEWI’s Community Advisory Board as a space where researchers and community partners work together to ensure that maternal health research is not only scientifically rigorous but also community-informed and action-oriented. By centering collaboration and shared learning, MEWI continues to support research that reflects Mississippi communities and advances meaningful progress toward improved population health.