Marissa Robinson

Dr. Marissa Robinson is a distinguished public health professional, wellness advocate, and community leader dedicated to advancing health equity and transformative initiatives for marginalized populations. With extensive experience spanning federal policy, community
engagement, and health education, Dr. Robinson has led efforts that center equity, syndemic approaches, and the unique needs of historically underserved communities. Her work emphasizes
intersectional strategies that integrate research, policy, and community-driven action to improve population health outcomes.

At the federal level, Dr. Robinson served as a senior leader within the Office of Infectious Diseases & HIV Policy, where she provided expert guidance and strategic oversight on programs addressing HIV prevention, care, and health equity. She spearheaded initiatives targeting the specific needs of Black women, including facilitating federally coordinated listening sessions and technical consultations to inform policy and practice. Dr. Robinson’s leadership in creating collaborative, multi-sector approaches has contributed to nationwide efforts aligned with the Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative and the National HIV/AIDS Strategy.

In addition to her policy work, Dr. Robinson is deeply committed to community engagement and wellness. She is a certified Zumba instructor and wellness facilitator, leading programs that promote physical activity, mental well-being, and social connection. Her initiatives extend to organizing and implementing health education events, community workshops, and interactive wellness experiences that empower individuals and communities to take proactive steps toward healthier lives.

Dr. Robinson serves as an adjunct professor at the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, supporting the next generation of public health leaders. She actively mentors emerging public health professionals through programs that cultivate leadership, collaborative skills, and practical expertise. Her dedication to fostering inclusive, impactful learning environments reflects her commitment to building the next generation of
changemakers in public health.

Dr. Robinson holds a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from Morgan State University, where her dissertation focused on PrEP use among Black women at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). She earned a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Emory University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Public and Environmental Health from Spelman College. Her research and practice interests focus on health equity, syndemic approaches, HIV prevention, and
community-centered wellness interventions, exemplifying the integration of policy, practice, and personal engagement to drive meaningful, measurable impact in public health.