Prairie View A&M University, a historically Black educational institution in Texas, has announced plans to establish the School of Public and Allied Health. The new School will house growing programs in the current department of health and kinesiology and several new programs in public health that the university has started in recent years.
The new School of Public and Allied Health will increase the visibility of the university, establish new health-related partnerships, and support cutting-edge research in critical mission-driven areas. “The School will identify and attract highly qualified faculty and students from diverse perspectives, cultures, ethnicities, and socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds with a specific interest in improving the health of our communities,” said James M. Palmer, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at the university.
Angela Branch-Vital has been named executive director of the new school. She is the head of the health and kinesiology department. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human science and a master’s degree in counseling from Prairie View A&M University. She earned a Ph.D. in epidemiology and biostatistics from the University of Texas School of Public Health.
“I am immensely excited about the numerous opportunities the School of Public and Allied Health will offer to our students, institution, and targeted populations,” said Dr. Branch-Vital. “Our school will be committed to academic excellence and top-tier research to promote a holistic quality of life.”
