Amherst Appoints New Public Health Director to Address Inequities and Promote Anti-Racism Values

Christina "Kiko" Malin brings extensive experience and a commitment to collaboration and anti-racist values to the role.

Introduction: Amherst, a town in Massachusetts, is set to welcome a new public health director who will prioritize addressing health inequities and integrating anti-racism values into public health practices. Christina "Kiko" Malin, currently serving as the prevention team director and public health excellence grant administrator for Northampton's Department of Public Health and Human Services, has been chosen for the position by Town Manager Paul Bockelman. Malin's appointment is subject to review by the Town Council at its upcoming meeting. With her experience in leadership roles and a track record of building teams to tackle public health challenges, Malin is poised to lead Amherst's public health department into a post-pandemic world. Body: Subheader 1: A Commitment to Collaboration and Anti-Racist Values Malin's appointment has been met with enthusiasm by Town Manager Paul Bockelman, who highlights her focus on collaboration, listening to community concerns, and integrating anti-racist values into her practice. These qualities are seen as crucial in addressing the pressing public health challenges faced by Amherst. Malin's approach recognizes that health outcomes are often more influenced by a person's ZIP code than their genetic code, emphasizing the need to address systemic inequities. Subheader 2: Extensive Experience and Leadership Before joining Northampton's Department of Public Health and Human Services, Malin served Alameda County, California, for a decade in various roles within the public health department. She began as the maternal-paternal child and adolescent health director and later took on broader responsibilities as the family health services division director. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Malin also assumed the role of epidemiology and surveillance branch chief. Her experience in these roles, along with her work as the preconception health coordinator at the California Department of Public Health, has equipped her with a deep understanding of public health challenges and the strategies needed to address them effectively. Subheader 3: A Strong Educational Background Malin's educational background further strengthens her qualifications for the role. She holds a bachelor's degree from Harvard University and dual master's degrees in social work and public health from the University of California, Berkeley, with a specialization in Community Health Education. This educational foundation, combined with her fluency in Spanish, positions Malin to engage with diverse communities and address health disparities. Conclusion: Amherst's appointment of Christina "Kiko" Malin as the new public health director reflects a commitment to addressing health inequities and promoting anti-racism values in the field of public health. With her extensive experience, leadership skills, and educational background, Malin is well-equipped to lead the town's public health department in a post-pandemic world. By prioritizing collaboration, listening to community concerns, and integrating anti-racist values into her practice, Malin aims to tackle pressing public health challenges and create a healthier, more equitable community for all.