Dr. Vickie Dugat is a Maternal and Child Health Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of South Florida’s College of Public Health. Her journey in health education began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences from the University of Florida in 2015. She then pursued a Master’s in Public Health at Morehouse School of Medicine, where she deepened her understanding of public health issues and strategies.

Driven by her passion for maternal and child health, Dr. Dugat completed a doctoral degree in Health Education at the University of Toledo. Her concentration was in Maternal and Child Health with a focus on Diversity. Her research centers on exclusive breastfeeding and explores racial and ethnic health disparities. She also examines the impact of stressful life events during pregnancy. These areas are crucial for improving health outcomes among mothers and children, particularly in underrepresented populations.

During her doctoral studies, Dr. Dugat served as a Graduate Research Assistant. She collaborated with local and national organizations to enhance trauma-informed care provided by Child Protective Services (CPS) in Toledo. This role allowed her to see the impact of trauma-informed approaches on public health interventions.

In addition to her research, Dr. Dugat has taught undergraduate public health courses. This has allowed her to share her knowledge and inspire future public health professionals. She also served as a certified Diversity Ambassador at the University of Toledo, advocating for greater diversity and inclusion within the academic community.

As a first-generation Haitian American and college graduate, Dr. Dugat is committed to reducing breastfeeding disparities in underrepresented populations. Her experiences drive her dedication to improving the health of mothers and children. Through research, education, and community collaboration, she aims to address health disparities and improve the lives of families.