Catherine Maybury, PhD, MPH, is a Faculty Specialist at the University of Maryland’s Horowitz Center for Health Literacy. Since 2011, she has led research and projects focused on improving how public health and healthcare organizations communicate health information. As project manager of the Maryland Consumer Health Information Hub, she supports health departments in creating plain language, culturally appropriate materials and building health literacy capacity. She also teaches undergraduate students, helping them understand the value of clear communication in public health and healthcare.

Zakkiyya Cunningham is the Owner & Principal Consultant of On the Hunt Consulting LLC, a firm focused on community-driven solutions for nonprofits, businesses, and local governments. She holds an M.A. in Urban Affairs from Norfolk State University, where she researched COVID-19 evictions’ impact on Black women, and a B.A. in Journalism from Georgia State University. With over 15 years of experience in nonprofit and grassroots organizing, Zakkiyya is dedicated to fostering equity, access, and sustainability in marginalized communities.She enjoys her life with her husband and their young son.

Alissa Gamberg is a bilingual language services professional with over eight years of experience in Spanish<>English interpretation, translation, and culturally responsive communication. As Language Services Team Lead at the St. Mary’s County Health Department, she provides interpretation, coordinates care for Spanish-speaking clients, and develops cross-cultural staff training. With a background in teaching Spanish and ESL, freelance language consulting, and eLearning development, Alissa is committed to equitable access and clear communication for Limited English Proficient individuals.

Lidia is a dedicated bilingual healthcare professional with over 15 years of experience in patient care, medical interpretation, translation, and care coordination. Originally from El Salvador, she immigrated to the United States 36 years ago and has since built a meaningful career serving diverse communities across hospitals, community clinics, and public health departments. Fluent in English and Spanish, she specializes in bridging communication barriers between patients and healthcare providers to promote culturally sensitive, patient-centered care. Her areas of expertise include care navigation, medical documentation, community outreach, and health education. Recognized for my compassion, professionalism, and commitment to service excellence, she advocates for equitable healthcare access and improved health outcomes for all.

Janine Horne, MSN, Ed, RN, AHN-BC, is a holistic nurse, award-winning entrepreneur, and founder of Zen Well Studio, a certified Black- and minority-owned business. Inspired by her own healing journey, she blends science and spirit to deliver wellness programs that promote lasting transformation. With a background in clinical leadership and certifications in advanced holistic nursing, Janine leads a diverse team offering services like meditation, IV hydration, and fitness coaching. A dynamic speaker, she is known for her heartfelt storytelling, evidence-based insights, and commitment to empowering individuals and communities through wellness.

Deosia Scriber is the Coordinated Special Programs Coordinator at the St. Mary’s County Health Department, with over three years in the Behavioral Health Division. With a background in psychology and a Master’s in Social Work in progress, she is passionate about community-centered care and supporting underserved populations. Deosia leads multidisciplinary initiatives, enhances access to behavioral health services, and builds strong community partnerships, drawing on her experience in crisis intervention, case management, and outreach.

Constance Coggins is a certified Alcohol/Drug Supervisor, Mental Health Technician, and Mental Health First Aid Instructor with national certification in addiction counseling. She has extensive experience in inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment and has presented research on mental illness in incarcerated minorities. Constance holds associate degrees in Human Services and Social Sciences, a bachelor’s in Psychology, and is pursuing a master’s in Mental Health Counseling. She is the founder of RESPONSIBLE RE-ENTRY INC., a nonprofit supporting justice-impacted individuals, and currently serves as the Education Outreach Coordinator for Affiliated Santé Group in Southern Maryland.

Janeen is a compassionate and dedicated social worker with a master’s degree in social work and decades of experience in behavioral health. She specializes in case management, counseling, and community outreach, working with youth, adults, and families across mental health, child welfare, and substance use services. Known for her strong work ethic and commitment to ethical, person-centered care, Janeen provides meaningful supervision to managers and mentors graduate-level interns. She values empathy, resilience, and humor, striving to make a lasting positive impact while promoting self-care and professional growth.

Jodi Gardiner is a Family Peer Support Specialist at Maryland Coalition of Families, with over 3 years of professional and 12 years of personal experience supporting families impacted by behavioral and developmental challenges. Inspired by her own journey navigating complex medical and educational systems, she is passionate about empowering families, fostering resilience, and advocating for mental health and inclusive services. Jodi holds certifications in Evidence-Based Practices and actively serves on local committees to improve mental health and special education resources in St. Mary’s County. She creates safe, supportive spaces where families can heal and thrive.

Debra McCreary joined SMCHD in 2024 as a Mental Health Professional Counselor at School-Based Health Centers, providing behavioral health services, community outreach, and education. Raised in Maryland, she holds a BS in Elementary Education, two master’s degrees, and a PhD in Advanced Human Behavior. A Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Debra has over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including roles as a teacher, school counselor, and clinician. She lives in Southern Maryland and enjoys family time, traveling, and visits to the beach and Disney World.

Brianne Daly is the Youth Engagement Coordinator at St. Mary’s County Health Department, working to connect youth with mentoring programs and develop solutions to public health challenges. With 20 years of experience in child and family advocacy, she focuses on trauma prevention and early intervention. Brianne holds multiple certifications, including Master ACEs presenter, Therapeutic Mentor, and Nurturing Parenting instructor. She is also a BEST certified Birth Doula, dedicated to supporting maternal and child health.

Paul Quade is a dedicated secondary math teacher with St. Mary’s County Public Schools, bringing over a decade of experience in K-12 and adult education. He holds a Master’s in Educational Technology and specializes in inclusive, culturally responsive instruction. Outside the classroom, Paul serves as President of PFLAG Southern Maryland, leading support groups and community education efforts. He also contributes to advocacy through Pride Southern Maryland, working to create affirming, accessible spaces for all.

Kaitlin Fraer, SNS, is the Food & Nutrition Services Coordinator for St. Mary’s County Public Schools with over a decade of experience in education and food service. Certified in ServSafe and School Nutrition, she leads innovative programs, including Farm-to-School initiatives and emergency feeding efforts. As Vice President of PFLAG Southern Maryland, Kaitlin advocates for LGBTQ+ inclusion through outreach and education. Her work reflects a strong commitment to equity, access, and the well-being of all children and families.