Katy B. Kozhimannil

Katy B. Kozhimannil is a Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, where she co-directs the Rural Health Research Center and Rural Health Program. Her work focuses on advancing health equity through policy research in maternal and child health, particularly in rural and Indigenous communities.

• PhD in Health Policy from Harvard University (2009)
• MPA in Policy and Administration from Princeton University (2003)
• BA in Spanish and International Relations from University of Minnesota (1999)

Her research examines health care delivery, quality, and outcomes during critical life stages, addressing racial, gender, and geographic inequities. She collaborates with stakeholders to inform policy changes related to social determinants and structural injustices. Recent publications highlight rural hospital closures, maternal syphilis trends, and equity in midwifery care.

Notable awards include the Heinz Award for Public Policy, Outstanding Educator Award by the National Rural Health Association, and recognition for top abstracts in Women’s Health. She teaches courses in public health policy and engages with leaders to improve community health outcomes.