Melissa L. Gilliam, BU’s New President, Brings Robust Research Background in Wellbeing of Young People
Melissa L. Gilliam, BU's New President, Brings Robust Research ... Boston University
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Melissa L. Gilliam: A Leader in Adolescent Health and Sustainable Development
Melissa L. Gilliam takes a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to her research. It’s the same approach she takes in her leadership roles, as well.
University News
As a research scientist with international experience, and a physician trained in obstetrics and gynecology, she has dedicated years to collaborating with young people
Introduction
Melissa L. Gilliam, a renowned research scientist and physician specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, has devoted her career to working with adolescents and teenagers. With a commitment to sustainable development, Gilliam combines her expertise in medicine, public health, and the humanities to address the challenges faced by young people.
Background and Experience
Gilliam brings a wealth of experience to her new role as the 11th president of Boston University. Previously serving as the executive vice president and provost at The Ohio State University, she has demonstrated leadership in both academia and research. Gilliam’s interdisciplinary research has taken her to countries such as Uganda, Nigeria, and India, where she has contributed to the field of adolescent health.
Emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals
Gilliam’s approach to her work aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By integrating humanistic practices into her research, she aims to improve health outcomes for young people. Her collaborative research approach, influenced by participatory design principles, allows her to incorporate diverse perspectives and methodologies. This approach contributes to the achievement of SDGs by promoting inclusivity and innovation.
Improving Methodologies and Well-being
Gilliam’s expertise in adolescent health and well-being has established her as a national leader in the field. Through her research, she seeks to understand and impact the lives of marginalized young people. Her studies have had a significant global impact, leading to her election as a member of the National Academy of Medicine. Gilliam’s broad research experiences enable her to foster collaboration and partnership across disciplines, ultimately improving the well-being of individuals, especially in marginalized populations.
Collaborative Approach to Domestic and International Research
Gilliam’s commitment to collaboration extends beyond the United States. She has established the Center for Interdisciplinary Inquiry and Innovation in Sexual and Reproductive Health (Ci3) at the University of Chicago, which brings together young people, community members, and faculty from various disciplines. Through Ci3, Gilliam utilizes games, narrative, and design to understand and improve adolescent health and well-being. Additionally, she has conducted research projects in India, focusing on youth-friendly data collection techniques. Gilliam’s global experiences contribute to her ability to work collaboratively and address health disparities on a global scale.
Conclusion
Gilliam’s extensive research, leadership, and commitment to sustainable development make her an ideal fit for the role of president at Boston University. Her interdisciplinary approach, informed by the SDGs, ensures that she will continue to drive innovation and excellence in research and education. With her expertise and collaborative mindset, Gilliam is poised to lead Boston University towards a future of impactful and inclusive academic and research endeavors.
Explore Related Topics:
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- Target 3.7: By 2030, ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services, including for family planning, information and education, and the integration of reproductive health into national strategies and programs.
- Indicator: The article mentions Gilliam’s research on adolescent health and well-being, specifically focusing on understanding and impacting the lives of adolescents, including marginalized young people.
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SDG 4: Quality Education
- Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including, among others, through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development.
- Indicator: The article mentions Gilliam’s collaborative approach to research, which involves engaging young people and community members in her work. This approach aligns with the target of promoting a culture of peace and non-violence through education.
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SDG 5: Gender Equality
- Target 5.6: Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in accordance with the Program of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences.
- Indicator: The article mentions Gilliam’s research on adolescent health and well-being, specifically focusing on understanding and impacting the lives of adolescents, including marginalized young people. This research aligns with the target of ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights.
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.7: By 2030, ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services, including for family planning, information and education, and the integration of reproductive health into national strategies and programs. | The article mentions Gilliam’s research on adolescent health and well-being, specifically focusing on understanding and impacting the lives of adolescents, including marginalized young people. |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including, among others, through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development. | The article mentions Gilliam’s collaborative approach to research, which involves engaging young people and community members in her work. |
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | Target 5.6: Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in accordance with the Program of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences. | The article mentions Gilliam’s research on adolescent health and well-being, specifically focusing on understanding and impacting the lives of adolescents, including marginalized young people. |
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Source: bu.edu
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