Sharon E. Barrett

Dr. Sharon E. Barrett serves as an Associate Professor within the Public and Allied Health Program at Morgan State University's School of Community Health & Policy. With over forty-five years of leadership experience across public, nonprofit, and private sectors, she specializes in program development, administration, and evaluation, with a dedicated focus on creating equitable health policies and services for marginalized communities.

Her academic credentials include:

• Bachelor of Arts from Lake Erie College, Painesville, Ohio
• Master of Science from Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, New York
• Doctor of Public Health from Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland

Dr. Barrett's research centers on health literacy and health policy literacy, examining how these factors influence community engagement and health outcomes among disenfranchised populations. She employs systems thinking and an environmental and social justice lens to address health disparities, with additional interests in student engagement of adult learners and health services management and planning.

Analysis of her recent publications (2017-2025) reveals a consistent focus on practical public health interventions, including vaccination policies, digital community engagement tools, breastfeeding support during crises, and HIV prevention strategies. These works collectively advance understanding of health equity through community-centered approaches and policy analysis.

Professional recognition includes:

• Member of the Beta Epsilon Chapter of the Delta Omega Honor Society in Public Health

At Morgan State University, Dr. Barrett has mentored doctoral students as Dissertation Chair since joining the faculty in 2015. Her prior federal service included founding and directing the Office of Minority and Women's Health at HRSA, demonstrating sustained commitment to health equity through both academic and practical leadership.