Anthony Blake
Tell us about yourself!
I'm currently the Director of Professional Programs at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. I work closely with the Dean for Academic Affairs to support our certificate, MPH, and DrPH programs. I am in the process of writing my dissertation for my DrPH degree with a concentration in epidemiology. I am exploring the intersection of epidemiology and occupational health concerning infection prevention and control. In my free time, I enjoy reading the classics, listening to podcasts, golfing, and spending time with my wonderful wife and two kids.
Why did you pursue a DrPH?
I grew up in an unpredictable and stressful environment, and education was never a priority. As a first-generation college graduate, I have always felt this drive not to squander the opportunities that were not available to my parents. After receiving my MPH and spending many years working for the government, I wanted to augment my education to impact my community more significantly. The flexibility of the DrPH degree has allowed me to continue my education and balance my professional and personal life while making a difference. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too?
What are you currently excited about in your job?
Connecting with DrPHers and developing the best DrPH program in the country!
If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why?
The Millennial in the Middle: When a lack of self-identity becomes your identity. This title resonates with me because I always have struggled with my identity. Who am I, and who am I supposed to be? It’s taken me over 30 years to realize this, but I am who I want to be, which is enough. It doesn’t matter what society thinks or says I should be. It doesn’t matter what my family thinks or says I should be. I am enough. Period.
What is something interesting about you that we should know?
I was an avid skateboarder growing up. I was consumed by all things related to this extreme sport. I realized I should probably slow down after I fell two stories headfirst down an elevator shaft while trying to pull off a trick on a construction site!