Balancing a full class schedule alongside performing duties as a local health service worker makes for a busy schedule, but Becki Jones, College of Population Health (COPH) student at The University of New Mexico, is effectively doing that and more. Jones is frequently involved in local public health outreach and her efforts are proving beneficial in connecting with the local community.
Becki Jones is a Diné Asdzáá (Navajo Woman), she is Totsohnii (Big Water clan), born for Ashiihi (Salt People clan), her maternal grandfather is Mą'ii Deeshgiizhinii (Coyote’s Pass clan) and her paternal grandfather is Tábąąí (Water’s Edge clan).
As of fall 2024, Jones will be entering her senior year in the Bachelor of Science in Population Health (BSPH) program. She embodies the integration of cultural identity with academic and professional pursuits at COPH. Jones intends to continue her education with the Master of Public Health program at COPH and specialize in Epidemiology with the objective of working in the Navajo tribal government in the Navajo Nation to improve community health outcomes.
Students like Jones help to strengthen the connection between UNM, the College of Population Health, and local communities in the region. Community outreach and collaboration is an impactful way of improving health equity in the state of New Mexico, and students like Jones help to provide inspiration surrounding the real-world organizing and application of public health practice.
Currently, Jones is a program manager for the Native Community Health Network at Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains based in Albuquerque. This role connects Jones with the local population and allows her to integrate skills and insight gained from serving the community into her assignments and research projects.
I'm able to take what I’ve learned from the community into the classroom, which helps me understand why theories and data collection are important in public health work. I explain to community members why we involve in public health service, and why it's important to take care of ourselves, K’é (relatives), and Nihimá Nahasdzáán (mother earth).
"I'm able to take what I’ve learned from the community into the classroom, which helps me understand why theories and data collection are important in public health work. I explain to community members why we involve in public health service, and why it's important to take care of ourselves, K’é (relatives), and Nihimá Nahasdzáán (mother earth)." Becki Jones, Student, UNM College of Population Health
While working at Planned Parenthood in Albuquerque, Jones has participated in community health outreach events such as providing local HIV testing and sex education services, among other reproductive health and wellness information campaigns.
“My COPH program aligns with my work as a community health worker and sexual health educator,” Jones said. “It helps improve my ability to provide health information and access to those who need it most.”
Recently, Jones’ work was featured at the UNM Undergraduate Research Opportunity Conference in 2024. Her presentation was focused on congenital syphilis among Native women in New Mexico. Jones provided information on a public health issue impacting the local community from the perspective of both community health activists and academic researchers. The mindful work of engaging with health activists and academic researchers, both on and off campus, is commendable and deserves recognition for its impact on the local community.
In addition to utilizing the skills she gains from the classroom, Jones also uses her musical skills to reach her community. Using her punk rock band as a platform, she organizes charitable events where she distributes community health information to young people in New Mexico. Through this type of outreach, Jones connects public health awareness with several different creative outlets and interests across the state.
Jones said a lot of her motivation has come from her own time as a COPH student.
“I’ve had a positive experience at the COPH and feel motivated by the instructor's willingness to assist and encourage students,” she said.
Jones is also an active board member of the Dził Ditł'ooí School of Empowerment, Action & Perseverance (DEAP) located in Navajo, New Mexico, and is also a board member of the Coalition to Stop Violence on Native Women. Jones aims to tie public service and community health knowledge into the local Albuquerque community by distributing health and wellness information at local events, and frequently distributes informational materials and harm reduction supplies.
As Jones moves into her new position as a teaching assistant this semester, she aims to help inspire and mentor the next generation of public health leaders. The COPH believes that community involvement and health outreach require ongoing attention and effort. Through her academic pursuits and community engagement, Jones demonstrates the potential for students to make meaningful contributions to public health objectives while continuing their professional and academic development.