Managing in Turbulent Times: Emerging Leaders in Public Health

Alumni

Rosanna H. Barrett, BSc, MPHRosanna  H. Barrett, BSc, MPH
Pesticide Surveillance Coordinator, Florida Department of Health

Area of work: Pesticide Exposure Surveillance

Rosanna Barrett is presently working in the capacity of Pesticide Surveillance Coordinator at the Florida Department of Health. In this position, she coordinates the activities of the surveillance program within the state. These duties include conducting human risk assessment to determine the severity and distributions of pesticide poisonings and identifying high-risk groups and activities for implementation of prevention and intervention strategies. Her job responsibilities also include preparing educational materials on pesticide poisonings; providing trainings and educational outreach programs to workers, health care providers and the public; participating in interagency work groups and focus groups; and liaising with local and federal agencies on pesticide poisoning issues.Prior to this assignment, she worked for approximately two years as an epidemiologist at the Miami-Dade County Health Department in Florida. As an epidemiologist, she performed Arbovirus surveillance activities which involve case ascertainment and investigations, data management and data analysis of reported cases.  Her responsibilities also included performing bio-terrorism activities such as preparing instructional materials for disease investigation, designing training modules and educational materials;and conducting general disease surveillance. Before joining the health department, she worked for 9 years as a laboratory analyst in quality assurance and environmental assessment laboratories. She is also a member of several public health associations and participates on numerous committees within the agency to which she is employed.

Personal Information

Rosanna Barrett is married with one child and is expecting another child this year. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida.

What I would like to get out of this program

I would like to gain the skills and knowledge to enhance my competence level in public health, especially as it relates to new and emerging diseases/conditions so that I can be a more proficient in performing my duty to the public. I am particularly interested in the tools and techniques that are applicable for serving  minorities and underpriviledged populations to assist them in improving and maintaining their health and expanding their life expectancy.