Latia Hickerson

Latia Hickerson, PhD, MPH, APRN, WHNP-BC, CNE, is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) School of Nursing. She serves as the BSN Honors Program Health Advocacy Track Coordinator and oversees undergraduate studies, with a focus on women's health advocacy and community engagement through innovative educational approaches.

Education:

• PhD in Nursing Research, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston
• MPH in Community Health Practice, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston
• MSN in Advanced Practice Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston
• BS in Nursing, Columbia University School of Nursing
• BS in Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida

Research Interests: Dr. Hickerson's work centers on maternal health equity and social justice in healthcare systems, particularly for marginalized populations. Her research integrates women's health with public health interventions, including HIV-adapted prenatal care models and community-based initiatives like urban gardening projects. She pioneers student-led podcasting to explore health disparities and develops curricula addressing systemic inequities in nursing education.

Publication Trends: Her recent publications demonstrate a focused investigation into HIV-adapted group prenatal care models, analyzing viral suppression outcomes and postpartum retention strategies. These studies bridge infectious disease management and obstetric care, emphasizing community-centered approaches to improve maternal health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Scientific Awards:

• University of Florida 40 Under 40 Alumni Honoree (2024)
• UTMB Fenton Endowment (2023)
• Elizabeth T. Anderson Endowment for Community Health (2022)
• Alpha Delta Chapter SIGMA Nursing Showcase of Excellence Winner (2021)
• Community Health and Service Award, UT Health Science Center (2017)
• PhD Faculty Award of Excellence, UT Health Science Center (2017)
• Robert Wood Johnson Future of Nurse Scholar (2014)
• Ben Love Scholar (2012)
• Outstanding Nurse Practitioner Award (2012)

Advising and Grants: As Health Advocacy Track Coordinator, Dr. Hickerson mentors undergraduate nursing scholars in community health initiatives. She secured a 2022 Sigma International grant for a community garden project at temporary housing shelters, pairing nursing students with families to address food insecurity. Her advising emphasizes experiential learning through projects like student-led podcasts examining maternal health equity.

Professional Engagement: Dr. Hickerson actively contributes to organizations including the National League of Nurses, American Public Health Association, and Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. Her conference presentations showcase innovative teaching methods and community partnerships focused on reproductive justice and health advocacy training for future nursing leaders.