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Cristina Bejarano
Director of Engagement at Colorado Association for School-Based Health Care (CASBHC)
Professional Background
Cristina Bejarano is a highly regarded bilingual health champion with a dedicated focus on enabling communities to access healthier living options. With over 15 years of experience in public health leadership, Cristina has made remarkable strides in utilizing health marketing strategies, directing departments within Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), and developing impactful foundation programs. Notably, she has successfully implemented various community programs that cater to the unique health needs of diverse populations. Her commitment extends beyond local initiatives, as she has also contributed to international health policy discussions, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of public health on both a community and global scale.
Her current role as the Director of Engagement at the Colorado Association for School-Based Health Care (CASBHC) exemplifies her dedication to improving health outcomes in schools, ensuring that students have access to necessary healthcare resources. With a strong emphasis on teamwork, collaboration, and community partnership, Cristina works tirelessly to elevate school health programs, enhancing the overall well-being of children and adolescents across Colorado.
Education and Achievements
Cristina's educational background is firmly rooted in leading public health initiatives. She earned her Master’s Degree in Public Health from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health, equipping her with advanced knowledge and skills to address complex health challenges. Prior to that, she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at The University of Texas at El Paso, where she honed her understanding of human behavior and mental well-being.
Throughout her career, Cristina has held prominent positions that showcase her versatile public health expertise. Her tenure at the Colorado Health Foundation as a Public Health Consultant allowed her to influence health policies and programs on a state level, while her earlier role as the Statewide Assessment and Planning Coordinator at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment solidified her skills in program development and assessment. She also played integral roles in various organizations including Clínica Tepeyac and the Pan American Health Organization, where she acted as a consultant addressing health disparities and enhancing health services for underserved populations.
Notable Contributions
Moreover, Cristina has held several roles that demonstrate her commitment to accessible healthcare. As the Health Content Director at Evolve Communications, she was at the forefront of health messaging and communication strategies, ensuring that critical health information reached diverse audiences effectively. Her leadership as the Intake, Assessment & Referral Director at Mary’s Center reinforced her ability to connect individuals with the healthcare services they needed, showcasing her passion for community empowerment.
Cristina's journey also includes achievements as a Fellow at the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), where she was instrumental in advocating for healthcare accessibility and quality improvement in public health practices. With her extensive experience conducting public health assessments and evaluations, Cristina remains a sought-after consultant for organizations eager to advance their public health initiatives.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Cristina's dedication to continuous learning and improvement is undeniable, as evidenced by her wide array of experiences, ranging from serving on boards to participating in educational initiatives that spotlight public health challenges and solutions.
In her various roles, she has demonstrated competency in addressing health disparities, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals through effective health programs.
Community Impact
Cristina’s impact resonates beyond her organizational affiliations, illustrating her status as a community leader who champions health equity. Her bilingual abilities enable her to connect with a wider audience, breaking down language barriers commonly faced in healthcare settings. By fostering inclusive dialogue around public health issues, Cristina empowers community members to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.
In summary, Cristina Bejarano continues to be a pillar of support for health initiatives, embodying the spirit of advocacy and community engagement in public health. Her noteworthy career reflects a commitment to promoting healthier lives for all individuals, regardless of their background, and her ongoing influence in the field serves as a testament to her passion and expertise in public health.
