Michaela Maynard graduated in 2007 after majoring in Spanish. She then went on to get a Master of Public Health from The George Washington University as well as a Master of Science of Nursing from Yale University. Learn how she was introduced into the world of public health through Honors, which changed her entire career trajectory.

Tell us about a favorite memory from your undergrad days. What do you think of the Honors Programs and your time at URI?

Too many too choose from! I made some of my very best friends through the Newman Club–many of which I am still friends with today. I loved being a Tour Guide–I think this helped me to overcome my fear of public speaking and allowed me to finesse my ability to walk backwards (which my kids think is very cool!) I had the best time traveling to Salamanca, Spain for the summer with Professor Mario Trubiano. My favorite course was an Honors Program course with Dr. Roger LeBrun about emerging infectious diseases–this course and my time with Dr. LeBrun motivated me to pursue a career in public health.

Tell us about the work you are doing today. What is your job, title and responsibility?

I currently serve as Clinical Manager at Open Door Health in Providence, RI. Open Door Health is Rhode Island’s only dedicated LGBTQ+ primary care and sexual health clinic. We provide primary care, gender affirming care, and sexual health services. I oversee the day to day operations of the clinic and I provide direct patient care as a nurse practitioner. I truly love my work, and I feel honored to be able to do this job every day.

What did the path to your current role look like? What are some interesting jobs or experiences you had along the way?

When I was at URI, I had initially planned on attending medical school. My honors class with Dr. LeBrun, led me to explore public health opportunities and after graduation, I chose to pursue an MPH. From there, I had an opportunity to work as a clinical research assistant, and I became involved in clinical studies related to HIV and hepatitis C virus. I had the opportunity to work with different types of health professionals and I realized that the right path for me was not medical school but was NP school. I felt passionate (and still feel passionate!) about the nursing model of care and the overarching goal of seeking better health and wellness not just for a single person, but for the community at large.

What would you like to highlight about your post-grad experience that you feel URI and the Honors Program uniquely prepared you for?

The Honors Program helped me to explore new interests (public health!) and for that I am grateful. This has truly changed the course of my professional trajectory.

Have you maintained connections with URI through alumni networks? Are you involved in any mentorship or outreach programs through URI? If so, please describe. If you are open to students reaching out to you, please indicate your contact preferences in your response.

Prior to COVID, I have participated in some pre-health related events through URI. I am open to continued involvement and to students reaching out. Email is best! michaelamaynard24@gmail.com

What advice do you have for current students?

Be open and kind.