April 8, 2026
Originally from Chicago, Aliyha Hill came to Mizzou to study health science and stayed to earn her master’s degree in public health. While on campus, she took on leadership roles that helped her see how education, equity and community engagement intersect in meaningful ways. Those experiences clarified her purpose and led her toward population-level impact.
Faculty mentorship within the College of Health Sciences played a key role in helping Hill find that path. She credits Kristin Flynn Peters for creating a supportive space that helped her navigate challenges and think strategically about her future, and she said Jenna Wintemberg inspired her to pursue public health as a long-term career.
Reflecting on what continues to motivate her, Hill thinks in terms of multi-generational impact: “How can I inspire myself, and how can I inspire those before me and after me? I think of the quote, ‘I am my ancestors’ wildest dreams.’ ”
Today, Hill is pursuing her Doctor of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University, where she continues to center community voices in research and practice. Professionally, she serves as an engagement specialist with Community-Campus Partnerships for Health and has worked across local and federal public health settings, including the Chicago Department of Public Health and Federal Emergency Management Agency.
“I don’t necessarily have a title for where I see myself,” Hill said. “But whatever hat I’m wearing, I want to make a lasting impact on the health of my community.”
