Donna Williams

Dr. Donna Williams is a Full Professor and Tenured Faculty member at the LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans, where she serves as the Director of the Louisiana Cancer Prevention & Control Program funded by the CDC. She also holds the position of Associate Dean for Public Health Practice and Community Engagement. Her academic and professional roles emphasize bridging research, policy, and community engagement to address public health challenges, particularly cancer prevention and health disparities.

Dr. Williams holds a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine (2009), a Master of Public Health (1991) from the same institution, and dual degrees in Biomedical Engineering (BS, 1983) and Industrial Engineering (MS, 1985) from Louisiana Tech University.

Her research interests focus on cancer prevention and control, particularly addressing disparities through innovative approaches such as Positive Deviance strategies and leveraging technology (e.g., WeChat-based interventions). Key areas include:

• Reducing health disparities in cancer screening and treatment access
• Development and evaluation of community-driven health interventions
• Use of digital platforms for smoking cessation and health promotion

Her recent publications highlight interventions targeting smoking cessation among Chinese populations using mobile health tools and evaluating colorectal cancer screening practices. She also explores social support networks for young breast cancer survivors and the impact of food pantries in cancer care settings.

Dr. Williams has secured funding from the CDC for her role as Director of Louisiana Cancer Prevention & Control and has led initiatives supported by various health organizations. Notable collaborations include work with the American Cancer Society and the Louisiana Department of Health. She mentors students through LSU's public health programs and advises student organizations focused on sustainability and outreach.

She is affiliated with the LSU/LCMC Health Cancer Center and the LSU Health New Orleans School of Public Health, contributing to interdisciplinary teams addressing cancer disparities and public health policy.