Biography
Meredith Brewer is a driven and compassionate public health professional committed to making a positive impact on communities, particularly in the realms of adolescent health and sexual/reproductive health. Born and raised in Danville, Illinois, Meredith's early experiences witnessing the effects of inadequate community resources and health education fueled her determination to effect change. Meredith has demonstrated exceptional leadership, adaptability, and a genuine passion for promoting health equity and empowerment throughout her academic and professional journey.
Meredith's academic journey began at Bradley University, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with minors in International Studies and Health. During her undergraduate years, she actively engaged in various organizations and initiatives dedicated to community service and global health. Notably, she participated in Habitat for Humanity, Red Cross youth leadership programs, and Global Medical Training, gaining invaluable experience in community engagement, advocacy, and cross-cultural communication.
Following her undergraduate studies, Meredith embarked on a series of AmeriCorps State/National service terms with Easter Seals Wisconsin Camps, where she served as a Respite Apprentice, Aquatics Specialist, and Camp Outreach Liaison. These experiences solidified her commitment to service and inspired her to pursue further opportunities for impactful work abroad.
In 2018, Meredith joined the United States Peace Corps and served as an Adolescent Health Promoter in Guyana, South America. Over the course of two years, she played a pivotal role in addressing pressing health issues facing adolescents in her community, including teenage pregnancy and mental health. Meredith's dedication and leadership were evident as she facilitated health education classes, organized regional workshops, and established an adolescent wellness clinic, leaving a lasting legacy of improved health outcomes and empowered youth.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Meredith's commitment to public health remained unwavering. Upon her return to the United States, she transitioned to a role as Health and Wellness Supervisor at the Northern Arizona Council of Governments (NACOG) Area Agency on Aging. In this capacity, she spearheaded initiatives to implement evidence-based health programs and social wellness activities for older adults in underserved communities, demonstrating her versatility and ability to adapt to diverse populations' needs.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Meredith is a dedicated advocate for sexual and reproductive health education. As the founder and host of the "Sex Ed Enthusiast" podcast, she creates informative and inclusive content aimed at destigmatizing conversations surrounding sexual health and empowering marginalized communities worldwide. Meredith's podcast has garnered international acclaim, reaching listeners in over 45 countries and serving as a valuable resource for individuals seeking accurate and affirming sexual health information.
Currently pursuing a Master of Public Health with a concentration in Global Health at the University of Arizona, Meredith continues expanding her knowledge and skills in public health practice and research. Through her graduate studies and involvement in initiatives such as the Arizona Climate & Health Podcast and research internships in Peru, she remains steadfast in her commitment to advancing health equity and social justice globally.
Her certifications further exemplify Meredith's dedication to public health advocacy and community empowerment as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®) and her extensive training in trauma-informed care, sexual violence prevention, and adolescent health. With a diverse skill set encompassing leadership, program management, and community outreach, Meredith is poised to make meaningful contributions to the field of public health and continue her lifelong mission of creating healthier, more equitable communities for all.