Michael Shepherd

Michael Shepherd is an Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, specializing in Health Management and Policy. With a PhD in Political Science from Vanderbilt University (2021), his research bridges U.S. health politics, rural health disparities, and the intersection of race, media, and public opinion.

• Education: PhD (2021), MA (2019) in Political Science from Vanderbilt University; MAP (2015) from the University of Akron; BS (2013) in Political Science from Murray State University.

Shepherd’s work examines how political parties and racial dynamics shape U.S. health policy, with a focus on rural health challenges such as hospital closures, Medicaid expansion, and the opioid epidemic. His research also explores the influence of mass media on health attitudes and behaviors during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Recent publications highlight trends in rural healthcare access, partisan election administration, and the racialization of public health issues. Articles span themes including legislative effectiveness, media framing of health crises, and the socioeconomic impacts of healthcare policy decisions.

Contact: meshep@umich.edu | Office: M3509 SPHII, 1420 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109