Nov. 14, 2025
This is part of a series of Q&As introducing faculty who have joined the College of Health Sciences for the 2025–26 academic year. Meet all of our new faculty members.
Sawiyyah (Chiquita) Chanay
Assistant extension professor, Department of Public Health
What classes are you teaching this semester?
I am not teaching any classes this semester.
Tell us about yourself. What is your background?
I am a public health practitioner and community health educator with over 20 years of experience providing leadership in developing, implementing and evaluating community programs in tobacco prevention, cancer prevention and early detection, chronic disease prevention and working across the continuum of addiction.
What brought you to Mizzou? To your field?
I came to the field by accident and found my passion. Due to the passage of the Tobacco Proceeds Act in Arkansas, I was hired as an executive director of the Arkansas Tobacco Settlement Commission fresh out of undergrad. That experience allowed me to learn how to see a program through its inception.
I relocated here to establish Community Health Engagement and Outreach, a new program within MU Extension.
What is your favorite thing about your job?
I enjoy writing grants that allow me to envision and pilot new programs that impact and improve the lives of Missourians.
What has you excited for this semester?
I am excited to have an academic home in the Department of Public Health, and excited to get to know other faculty who do similar work. I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with innovative leaders and researchers in the department.
What is a fun hobby or activity that you enjoy outside of work?
I enjoy sound baths and yoga retreats. I love hiking in Missouri – there are great trails here.
Share a memorable moment from your time teaching – something funny, touching, or just downright unforgettable!
Any time that I teach or speak in-person about the Recovery Friendly Workplace initiative, there is always someone who comes up to me after with lived experience to share their experience. They are always thankful to learn there is such a program to educate employers and help to create supportive work environments that help reduce stigma related to substance use disorder and mental health.
What is your hidden talent?
Even though I can’t sing, I love karaoke. Whether I’m on lead vocals (embarrassing) or the background dancer, it’s always a good time!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
A former colleague of mine shared the importance of celebrating small wins. Public health work can sometimes take a while to show results and impact; depending on the work, it might take years. Celebrating each phase and accomplishment restores our confidence that we are going in the right direction and that, as public health professionals, we are making a difference.
