Ashlee Nelson

What has been the single most rewarding experience of your career/studies so far?

I joined the planning committee for the UND Out of the Darkness Campus Walk which was the first American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Campus Walk in North Dakota. We surpassed every single goal including sponsors, walkers, and funds raised. It was such a moving day and I was proud to be a part of it.

What do you think is the biggest challenge that the public health field should be focusing on?

I think that there needs to be a larger emphasis on mental health. We have come far, but I think it is the root of so many other issues that it should be a priority. I believe that if we can build healthier, happier communities, other successes will follow.