Nelda Mier

Professor Nelda Mier is known for her significant contributions to the field of public health, particularly in chronic disease prevention and health behavior change. As an Instructional Associate Professor in the Health Behavior department at Texas A&M School of Public Health, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role. Dr. Mier earned her Ph.D. in Health Education from the University of New Mexico, where she developed a strong foundation in health education and research methodologies. Dr. Mier's research interests are centered around behavioral change interventions, with a particular focus on chronic disease prevention and physical activity among Mexican Americans. Her work is instrumental in addressing health disparities in the Texas-Mexico border region, where she has conducted extensive studies on diabetes prevention and the effectiveness of the promotoras model. This model leverages community health workers to promote health education and support within underserved communities, a strategy that Dr. Mier has found to be particularly effective in improving health outcomes. Her dedication to improving the quality of life for Mexican Americans is evident in her research, which aims to implement sustainable health behavior changes across all age groups. Dr. Mier's work not only addresses immediate health concerns but also seeks to empower communities through education and engagement, fostering long-term health improvements. In addition to her research, Dr. Mier is deeply committed to teaching and mentoring students at Texas A&M. She integrates her research findings into her curriculum, providing students with real-world applications of public health theories and practices. Her approach to education emphasizes the importance of cultural competence and community engagement in public health initiatives. Dr. Mier's contributions to the field have been recognized through various publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Her work continues to influence public health policies and practices, particularly in regions with significant health disparities. Through her research and teaching, Dr. Mier remains a pivotal figure in advancing public health education and practice, with a lasting impact on the communities she serves.