Tulane grad chosen to build a healthier New Orleans

Tulane University Alumna Marsha Broussard recently became the director of the New Orleans Health Department, following an appointment from New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, and plans to focus on promoting healthy living in the city.
 
“As health director, one of my responsibilities is to monitor the health status of our residents,” said Broussard. “Since we define health quite broadly, I also have the responsibility to coordinate with other city departments such as housing, transportation, sanitation, public safety and community development to ensure that these sectors incorporate and embrace public health into their mission and activities.”
 
In addition to promoting healthy living through initiatives like Fit NOLA, she plans to work towards reducing community violence, removing health barriers that affect students and enrolling uninsured residents for affordable healthcare.
 
Broussard previously served as program director at the Louisiana Public Health Institute, and earned her doctorate from Tulane in 2011.
 
“I felt strongly that attaining my doctorate would improve my public health practice. My experience was challenging but rewarding,” said Broussard. “It has made me a better, more effective professional and has certainly helped to prepare me for the position of health director.”