Sarah Cercone Heavey

Sarah Cercone Heavey is a Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies for the MPH Program at the Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions. Her research focuses on substance use and misuse, opioid overdose, suicidality, mental health, and harm reduction.

• Education: PhD and MPH in Community Health and Health Behavior from SUNY at Buffalo; BA in History from Trinity College, University of Toronto.

Dr. Heavey’s research explores social network influences on opioid overdose and substance use, with a focus on naloxone access, intentionality in overdose, and mental health outcomes for military personnel. Her recent publications address integrative learning in public health education, opioid-related infections, and collaborative care models for pain management.

Scientific contributions include a NIMH-funded T32 fellowship and membership in the Delta Omega Public Health Honor Society. She has also published on PTSD symptoms, marital instability, and energy drink use in military populations.

• Key Awards:
  • NIMH-funded T32 fellowship
  • Delta Omega Public Health Honor Society, Gamma Lambda Chapter

Dr. Heavey has served as an educator and researcher in public health for over a decade, with prior affiliations at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the University of Rochester Medical Center. Her work bridges clinical research, policy analysis, and educational innovation.