The Indiana University Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health proudly announces the recognition of Andrea Janota, MPH, recipient of the Emerging Public Health Leader Award, and Valerie A. Yeager, DrPH, honored with the Outstanding Public Health Advocate Award from the Indiana Public Health Association.
Janota’s leadership has increased access to health care across the state, particularly in underserved communities. As director of the IU Indianapolis ECHO Center, Janota fosters partnerships between providers and specialists to improve access to essential health resources, specifically enabling the Center to address issues such as maternal and infant mortality, health in incarcerated populations, mental health and chronic disease management. Her commitment to health equity and innovative educational initiatives has empowered numerous individuals and improved the health of communities across Indiana.
Yeager’s career has spanned over 20 years of extensive research and advocacy to advance public health. As a professor of health policy and management and interim director of the Center for Health Policy at the Fairbanks School, she has significantly influenced public health policy in Indiana. In 2020, she was a lead coauthor on a report examining Indiana’s public health system that led to the formation of the Governor’s Public Health Commission and the unprecedented 1500% increase in public health funding in Indiana.
Her recent state public health workforce report has garnered attention for highlighting the urgent need to bolster the public health workforce, illustrating barriers to hiring and emphasizing the necessity for systemic change. Her career demonstrates her advocacy for policies that enhance the health of communities and reduce barriers to access.
“We are immensely proud of Andrea Janota and Dr. Valerie Yeager for their remarkable accomplishments,” said Nir Menachemi, PhD, professor and dean of the Fairbanks School. “Their dedication to public health not only uplifts our community but also sets a standard for excellence in our field. Both exemplify the Fairbanks School’s commitment to public health advancement and equity.”
A formal presentation of the awards took place at the Indiana Public Health Celebration and Awards on Tuesday, November 19, where both recipients were honored for their significant contributions to public health.