Desta Dugassa | Food Science and Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Desta Dugassa | Food Science and Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Fufa Haramaya University | Ethiopia

Dr. Desta Dugassa Fufa is an accomplished scholar and Assistant Professor specializing in Food Science, Nutrition, and Public Health, with strong interdisciplinary training across food technology, environmental health, and water and sanitation management. He holds a Ph.D. in Food Science and Nutrition, an MPH in Public Health with a focus on environmental health, and dual Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Food Science and Technology and Food Postharvest Technologies. With over a decade of academic and research experience, he has served as Associate Director of the Haramaya Institute of Technology and has led extensive teaching, research, community engagement, and media-based nutrition outreach. His professional expertise spans food product development, nutrition analysis, food quality assessment, ISO and HACCP systems, risk analysis, value-added processing, and environmental safety. He has served as Principal Investigator on multiple funded projects, including studies on maternal and child nutrition, digital food behavior, and value-added food technologies, and has contributed to internationally funded initiatives such as the SMIL project supported by the Gates Foundation. Recognized with an International Analytical Chemistry Award, he actively participates in national and international conferences and reviews scientific manuscripts. His research interests center on functional foods, nutraceuticals, food omics, nanofiber-based packaging, microbiota, and sustainable food systems. He remains committed to advancing science-driven solutions for improved health, nutrition, and food security.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Tamene, A., Fufa, D.D., Bekele, T., Bultosa, G., Kumar, A., & Singh, N. (2025). “Value-addition to composite soft bread wheat cookies using avocado seed and finger millet flours: assessing the nutritional, techno-functional, and sensory properties.” Measurement: Food.

Fufa, D.D. (2025). “Postharvest Physiological Disorders of Apricot.” In Postharvest Physiological Disorders of Fruits.

Fufa, D.D., Bekele, T., Bultosa, G., & Tamene, A. (2025). “Avocado seeds valorization for sustainable food ingredient use: quality attributes evaluation in the traditional fermented teff injera.” Discover Sustainability.

Fufa, D.D., Bekele, T., Tamene, A., & Bultosa, G. (2025). “Drying kinetic models, thermodynamics, physicochemical qualities, and bioactive compounds of avocado (Persea americana Mill. Hass variety) seeds dried using various drying methods.” Heliyon.

Fufa, D.D., Seid, A., & Bitew, Z.W. (2024). “The use of internet-based smartphone apps consistently improved consumers’ healthy eating behaviors: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.” Frontiers in Digital Health.

Federica Ciminelli | Healthcare Data Analysis | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Federica Ciminelli | Healthcare Data Analysis | Women Researcher Award

Ospedale sacro cuore don Calabria | Italy

Dr. Federica Ciminelli is an Italian physician specialized in Infectious and Tropical Diseases, holding a postgraduate degree from the Second University of Naples after completing her medical training with distinction at the University of Bologna. She has worked extensively in primary care, infectious diseases, global health, and migrant health, serving in roles such as USCA physician, medical coordinator for migrant reception programs, and clinician in continuity-of-care services across Tuscany and Veneto. Her international experience includes Erasmus-based clinical rotations in Lisbon and a clinical research internship at St. Kizito Hospital in Uganda, where she contributed to data collection for her thesis on community-acquired pneumonia in low-resource settings. Her academic output includes 18 citations, 18 documents, 4 indexed documents, and an h-index of 2. She has collaborated with global health institutions, participated in congress organization on conflicts of interest in medicine, and engaged in long-term volunteer work with homeless communities and survivors of trafficking. Her research interests span infectious diseases, global health, health inequities, migrant access to care, and community medicine. She has received top-level academic evaluations in both her medical degree and specialization. Dr. Ciminelli remains committed to evidence-based medicine, equitable healthcare, and international collaboration.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

Effectiveness of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine for treating Plasmodium falciparum malaria from sub-Saharan Africa: a retrospective study, 2025

Prognostic Value of Creatinine Levels at Admission on Disease Progression and Mortality in Patients with COVID-19—An Observational Retrospective Study, 2023

Osama Sawalha | Healthcare Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Osama Sawalha | Healthcare Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Universidad de Granada | Spain

Dr. Osama Sawalha is a dedicated researcher and registered nurse with a PhD in Public Health and Clinical Medicine from the University of Granada, Spain. His academic background also includes a Master’s degree in Health Care for the Promotion of Personal Autonomy and End-of-Life Care Processes and a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. With extensive clinical experience across Spain and Palestine, Dr. Sawalha has worked in diverse healthcare environments, including hospitals, Alzheimer’s care facilities, and emergency medical services. His research focuses on psychological well-being, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress among patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and their caregivers. He has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, addressing mental health outcomes, cardiac recovery, and family functioning in chronic illness contexts. Dr. Sawalha has presented his work at international conferences and participated in numerous professional development programs on research methodologies, scientific writing, and biomedicine. His work aims to improve the integration of psychological care within clinical and community health systems. Through his dedication to patient-centered research and compassionate nursing practice, Dr. Sawalha continues to contribute meaningfully to advancing public health and evidence-based care.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Sawalha, O., Ariza-Vega, P., Alhalaiqa, F., Pérez-Rodríguez, S., & Romero-Ayuso, D. (2024). Psychological discomfort in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) in West Bank: A cohort study. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 13(7), 2027.

Sawalha, O., Ariza-Vega, P., Alhalaiqa, F., Dabbour, R., & Romero-Ayuso, D. (2025). Comparison of pre- and post-surgery cardiac depression and perceived stress levels in heart patients undergoing different types of surgery. Geriatric Nursing.

Pérez-Rodríguez, S., Sawalha, O., & Romero-Ayuso, D. (2025). ECogFun-Virtual Reality program for improving planning and organization skills in daily life in children and adolescents with ADHD: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Research in Developmental Disabilities.

Shruti Shukla | Social Impact Young Researcher Award| 

Ms. Shruti Shukla | Social Impact |  Young Researcher Award 

Technical University of Munich | Germany

Ms. Shruti Shukla is a dedicated researcher in global health with a strong focus on gender equity, adolescent maternal and child health, and the socio-economic determinants of well-being in low- and middle-income countries. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Global Health at the Technical University of Munich, Germany, where her research examines the impact of gender transformative interventions on adolescent maternal and child health outcomes. She holds an MSc in Global Health from Maastricht University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Liberal Arts from Ashoka University, and an MSc in Biotechnology from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Her extensive professional experience includes research associate roles at TUM and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, contributing to projects on economic violence, intimate partner violence, and the impact of COVID-19 on gender inequities. She has also worked as a project coordinator for community-based health programs in India focusing on pneumonia and anaemia prevention. Her research interests encompass public health policy, gender-based violence prevention, and global health systems. She has delivered lectures on global and maternal health and contributed to several international collaborations. Ms. Shukla continues to pursue evidence-based approaches that promote equity, resilience, and empowerment in global health contexts.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Shukla, S., Shenderovich, Y., Jacobs, C., & Steinert, J. I. (2025). Pedalling progress? Assessing the long-term impact of a bicycle intervention on adolescent maternal and child health in Zambia. Social Science & Medicine.

Shukla, S., Kharade, A., Böhret, I., Jumaniyazova, M., Meyer, S. R., Abejirinde, I.-O. O., Shenderovich, Y., & Steinert, J. (2025). How do gender transformative interventions reduce adolescent pregnancy in low- and middle-income countries: A realist synthesis. Journal of Global Health.

Shukla, S., Mosha, N. R., Meyer, S. R., Harvey, S., Lees, S., Mshana, G., & Stöckl, H. (2025). Women’s informal group participation and intimate partner violence in Mwanza, Tanzania: A longitudinal study. Social Science & Medicine.

Steinert, J. I., Shukla, S., & Satish, R. V. (2024). Navigating distress: Exploring factors affecting adolescent girls’ wellbeing during and after a violence-focused survey in Maharashtra, India. Child Abuse & Neglect.

Shukla, S., Abejirinde, I.-O. O., Meyer, S. R., Shenderovich, Y., & Steinert, J. I. (2024). Mechanisms behind gender transformative approaches targeting adolescent pregnancy in low- and middle-income countries: A realist synthesis protocol. Systematic Reviews.

Shukla, S., Castro Torres, A. F., Satish, R. V., Shenderovich, Y., Abejirinde, I.-O. O., & Steinert, J. I. (2023). Factors associated with adolescent pregnancy in Maharashtra, India: A mixed-methods study. Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters.

Meyer, S. R., Hardt, S., Brambilla, R., Shukla, S., & Stöckl, H. (2023). Sociological theories to explain intimate partner violence: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse. Advance online publication.

Tze-Woei Tan | Healthcare Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tze-Woei Tan | Healthcare Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

University of Southern California | United States

Dr. Tze-Woei Tan is an Associate Professor of Clinical Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and Director of the Limb Salvage Research Program. He obtained his MBBS at the University of Melbourne (2002), completed general surgery training at Brown University (2010) and a vascular surgery fellowship at Boston University School of Medicine (2012), and later earned a Master of Public Health in Health Promotion (2020). His academic career includes an Assistant Professorship at the Louisiana State University Health Science Center (2012-16) and an Associate Professorship at the University of Arizona College of Medicine (2020-22) before his current role at USC. His research focuses on health services, access to care, health equity, and particularly limb preservation in patients with diabetes and peripheral artery disease, securing major NIH and foundation-funded grants in these areas. Among his recognitions are the Roger Pecoraro Award (American Diabetes Association, 2023) and the Faculty Teaching Award at Keck (2024). According to publicly available data his publication record spans from 2007 to 2025 and he is credited with an h-index of ~25, around 2,597 citations, and approximately 124 documents (note: bibliometric values vary by database and may be approximate). In sum, Dr. Tan merges specialist operative vascular surgery with a strong public-health and equity orientation, leading interdisciplinary efforts to reduce amputations and improve vascular care in underserved populations.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Bolakale-Rufai, I.K., French, S.R., Knapp, S.M., Thompson, M., Arias, J.C., Garcia-Filion, P., Ainapurapu, B., Tan, T.-W., & Weinkauf, C.C. (2025). “Stratification of Clinical Microvascular Disease Severity Using Non-Invasive Monofilament Testing in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” in Diabetology, 6(4). DOI: 10.3390/diabetology6040024.

Luu, I.Y., Hong, A.T., Lee, A., Arias, J.C., Shih, C.-D., Armstrong, D.G., & Tan, T.-W. (2024). “Improved Diabetic Foot Ulcer Outcomes in Medicaid Beneficiaries with Podiatric Care Access” in Diabetology, 5(5). DOI: 10.3390/diabetology5050036.

Kwon, K., Brown, T.A., Arias Aristizábal, J.C., Armstrong, D.G., & Tan, T.-W. (2024). “Outcomes for Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcers Following Transition from Medicaid to Commercial Insurance” in Diabetology, 5(3). DOI: 10.3390/diabetology5030027.

Finco, M.G., Cay, G., Lee, M., Garcia, J., Salazar, E., Tan, T.-W., Armstrong, D.G., & Najafi, B. (2023). “Taking a Load Off: User Perceptions of Smart Offloading Walkers for Diabetic Foot Ulcers Using the Technology Acceptance Model” in Sensors, 23(5), 2768. DOI: 10.3390/s23052768.

Tan, T.-W., Armstrong, D.G., & collaborators. (2022). “Rates of Diabetes-Related Major Amputations Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Adults Following Medicaid Expansion Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act” in JAMA Network Open, 5(3), e223991. DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.3991. PMID: 35323948.

Gracia Cristina Villodres | Descriptive Analytics | Best Research Article Award

Mrs. Gracia Cristina Villodres |  Descriptive Analytics | Best Research Article Award

University of Granada | Spain

Gracia Cristina Villodres is a predoctoral fellow at the University of Granada, specializing in physical activity, health, and education. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education with a specialization in Physical Education (2020), and two Master’s Degrees—one in Research and Innovation in Curriculum and Teacher Training (2021) and another in Physical Activity and Health (2022). Currently completing her PhD (FPU Fellowship 2021–2025) on healthy habits, cognitive function, and academic performance, she is also pursuing a Degree in Psychology. Her research interests focus on physical activity, body image, academic achievement, and mental health in youth populations. She has participated in four competitive research projects, serving as both researcher and principal investigator, and has published over 50 book chapters with ISBN. Her scholarly impact includes an H-index of 4 in Web of Science, 12 in Scopus, and 5 in Google Scholar, with a total of over 55 citations across databases. She has completed a research stay at the University of Bern and received the University of Granada Talent Award (2022). Through her teaching and research, she promotes evidence-based approaches to education and health, aiming to enhance well-being, inclusion, and performance in school and university settings.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Villodres, G. C., Pérez-Díaz, J.-J., Salas-Montoro, J.-A., & Muros, J. J. (2025). Sex-based differences in lifestyle behaviours, self-esteem, and academic performance: A structural equation model in high-socioeconomic-status school-aged youth from southern Spain. Children.

Villodres, G. C., Rodríguez-Mérida, M., Vizcaíno-Cuenca, R., & Muros, J. J. (2025). Effectiveness of physical education interventions on mental health in children and adolescents: A systematic review of wellbeing and distress across educational levels. Adolescent Research Review.

Villodres, G. C., Campos-Pérez, L. M., Salvador-Pérez, F., Muros, J. J., & Vizcaíno-Cuenca, R. (2025). Relación entre el uso de redes sociales, hábitos saludables y factores psicológicos relacionados con la percepción de la imagen corporal en estudiantado universitario. Retos.

Navidad Cobo, L., Villodres, G. C., & Padial-Ruz, R. (2025). Efecto de un programa de actividad física y educación nutricional para la mejora de hábitos saludables en educación primaria. Retos.

Villodres, G. C., Salvador-Pérez, F., & Muros, J. J. (2024). Factors associated with Mediterranean diet adherence in a sample of high socio-economic status children from southern Spain. Public Health Nutrition.

Vassilis Barkoukis | Human Behavior Modeling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Vassilis Barkoukis | Human Behavior Modeling | Best Researcher Award

Aristotle University Of Thessaloniki | Greece

A distinguished scholar in Sport and Exercise Psychology, this academic serves as an Associate Professor at the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Holding dual PhDs—one in Human Performance and Health from Aristotle University (2001) and another in Social and Sport Psychology from the University of Sheffield (2018)—their work bridges psychology, education, and athletic performance. With extensive teaching experience across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels in Greece and Romania, they have contributed courses in sport psychology, pedagogy, research methods, and curriculum development. Their research focuses on motivation, teaching climates, physical activity pedagogy, health promotion, and psychological aspects of sport performance and behavior. The scholar has participated in 37 funded national and international research projects, published over 150 peer-reviewed papers and proceedings, and contributed to 18 book chapters and 4 edited volumes. Recognized with multiple awards, including the “Researcher of the Year” (2022) and National Scholarship Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship, their work has achieved significant global impact with over 4,111 citations, an Documents 144, and an i10-index of 34. Their career reflects a deep commitment to advancing sport science, education, and health promotion through innovative, evidence-based research and teaching excellence.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

Barkoukis, V., et al. (2025). Transforming anti-doping education with web-based interactive programs and applications: A scoping review. Emerging Trends in Drugs, Addictions and Health. (Open access).

Barkoukis, V., et al. (2025). Enhancing preschoolers’ motor creativity through playfulness and social engagement. Children. (Open access).

Barkoukis, V., et al. (2025). The role of school environment on the sustainable development of pre-schoolers’ motor creativity. Sports. (Open access).

Barkoukis, V., et al. (2025). Athletes from Great Britain report greater doping likelihood than Greek and Italian athletes: A cross-sectional survey of over 4,000 athletes. Performance Enhancement and Health. (Open access, 1 citation).

Barkoukis, V., et al. (2025). Evaluation of a sports integrity course for university students. Performance Enhancement and Health. (Open access).

Barkoukis, V., et al. (2025). A whole-school approach for the promotion of physical activity: An evaluation of stakeholders’ and educators’ perceptions about education in six European countries. Education Sciences. (Open access, 1 citation).

Najim Alshahrani – Public health – Best Researcher Award 

Assist Prof Dr. Najim Alshahrani - Public health - Best Researcher Award 

University of Jeddah - Saudi Arabia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Assist Prof Dr. Najim Zafer Alshahrani embarked on his academic journey with a solid foundation in medicine and public health. Born on September 21, 1989, he completed his high school education at First Alabna'a Secondary School in Hafr Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia. His pursuit of higher education began at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, where he obtained his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). This foundational medical education set the stage for his future contributions to the field of preventive medicine and public health.

Driven by a desire to further his expertise, Alshahrani pursued a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the prestigious University of Sydney, Sydney Medical School in Australia. This international experience broadened his perspective and equipped him with advanced knowledge and skills in public health. Additionally, he achieved a Certificate in Travel Health (CTH) from the International Society of Travel Medicine in Dunwoody, United States, showcasing his commitment to specialized areas of public health.

Professional Endeavors

Assist Prof Dr. Najim Zafer Alshahrani's professional career is marked by a series of significant roles that highlight his dedication to preventive medicine and public health. Currently, he serves as an Assistant Professor of Preventive Medicine and Public Health at the Family and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jeddah. His academic role involves mentoring and supervising undergraduate medical students, particularly in their field health promotion projects.

Alshahrani has held several key positions, including Chairman of the Research Ethical Local Committee at Alborg Diagnostics and Founder & CEO of the Arab Clinical Research Institute (ACRI). His leadership extends to founding and directing the SBPM Platform for Educational and Research Developmental Services in Public Health and Preventive Medicine. These roles underscore his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to advancing research and education in his field.

Contributions and Research Focus

A notable aspect of Alshahrani's career is his significant contributions to research. He has been the lead researcher on projects aimed at promoting physical activity through evidence-based policies in Saudi Arabia. His work on the use of mobile technologies to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviors in the MENA region culminated in a systematic review and meta-analysis manuscript, showcasing his research prowess and focus on contemporary public health challenges.

Alshahrani's research endeavors are not limited to physical activity promotion. He has also been involved in various health needs assessments, such as the Community Quantitative and Qualitative Health Need Assessment Survey in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia. His role in the CDC Investigation of the MERS outbreak and participation in the national awareness campaign for swine flu further illustrate his commitment to addressing pressing public health issues.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Najim Zafer Alshahrani has received numerous awards and honors that reflect his excellence in research, teaching, and professional practice. He was awarded the Dean of the College of Medicine Excellency Award for the best-distinguished Faculty Member in Research Field (2023) and the Excellence in Research Award during his residency years at the Saudi Board of Preventive Medicine in Abha center (2022).

His international recognition includes the Certificate of Excellence in Scientific Poster Presentation at the International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM) conference and the International Student Award for Volunteer Excellence from the University of Sydney. These accolades underscore his global impact and dedication to advancing public health knowledge and practice.

Impact and Influence

Assist Prof Dr. Najim Zafer Alshahrani's impact extends beyond his immediate academic and professional circles. As a mentor and supervisor, he has guided numerous medical students and residents in their research projects, fostering the next generation of public health professionals. His role in various national and international organizations, including the International Society of Travel Medicine and the Public Health Association of Australia, positions him as a key influencer in the field of preventive medicine.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Najim Zafer Alshahrani's legacy is poised to be one of significant contributions to public health and preventive medicine, both in Saudi Arabia and internationally. His ongoing involvement in research, education, and professional practice ensures that he will continue to influence and shape the field. As the Founder & CEO of the Arab Clinical Research Institute, Alshahrani is well-positioned to drive innovation and foster collaborative research initiatives across the region.

In summary, Najim Zafer Alshahrani's career is characterized by a blend of academic excellence, professional leadership, and impactful research. His contributions to public health and preventive medicine are substantial, and his dedication to advancing knowledge and practice in these fields is evident in his numerous roles and accolades. As he continues to mentor future health professionals and lead key research initiatives, his influence and legacy in the field will undoubtedly grow.

Citations

A total of 718 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of her research within the academic community.

Angelo Riccio – population exposure – Best Scholar Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Angelo Riccio - population exposure - Best Scholar Award 

University of Naples Parthenope - Italy

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc Prof Dr. Angelo Riccio embarked on his academic journey with a fervent passion for environmental science, evident from his early academic pursuits. His academic trajectory commenced with a focus on fundamental scientific principles, laying a robust foundation for his future research endeavors. Through dedicated study and research, he cultivated a deep understanding of atmospheric dynamics, air quality, and environmental modeling.

Professional Endeavors

Transitioning from academia to professional endeavors, Angelo Riccio's commitment to advancing environmental science remained unwavering. His tenure at Parthenope University Naples provided him with a platform to merge theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Through interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative methodologies, he delved into diverse facets of environmental research, ranging from air pollution characterization to ecosystem modeling.

Contributions and Research Focus

Assoc Prof Dr. Riccio's contributions to the field of environmental science are multifaceted and profound. His research focus spans a wide array of topics, including atmospheric chemistry, aerosol dynamics, and climate modeling. By employing state-of-the-art techniques and conducting comprehensive studies, he elucidated the intricate interactions between natural and anthropogenic processes shaping our environment. His investigations into air quality regulation, source apportionment, and pollutant transport dynamics have garnered widespread recognition for their scientific rigor and societal relevance.

Accolades and Recognition

Assoc Prof Dr. Angelo Riccio's exemplary contributions have earned him acclaim within the scientific community. His prolific publication record in reputable journals such as Science of the Total Environment, Atmospheric Pollution Research, and Ecological Modelling attests to the significance of his research findings. Moreover, his work has been cited extensively, underscoring its impact and influence on the broader scientific discourse. Riccio's dedication to excellence has been acknowledged through prestigious accolades and awards, reaffirming his status as a trailblazer in environmental research.

Impact and Influence

Assoc Prof Dr. Riccio's research legacy extends beyond mere academic accolades, manifesting in tangible societal impact and influence. By shedding light on pressing environmental issues such as air pollution and climate change, he has empowered policymakers, stakeholders, and the public with invaluable insights for informed decision-making. His efforts towards developing innovative methodologies for environmental monitoring and assessment have catalyzed advancements in environmental management practices, fostering sustainability and resilience in urban and peri-urban areas.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Angelo Riccio's illustrious career continues to evolve, his legacy as a visionary environmental scientist is already firmly established. His pioneering research has paved the way for future generations of scholars to build upon, inspiring continued exploration and innovation in environmental science. Looking ahead, Riccio remains committed to addressing emerging environmental challenges and driving positive change through his research endeavors. With a steadfast dedication to scientific excellence and a fervent commitment to environmental stewardship, Angelo Riccio's impact will resonate for years to come.

Citations

A total of 1980 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of her research within the academic community.

Portia. Zoleta-Vitug – Environmental Health Nursing – Best Faculty Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Portia. Zoleta-Vitug - Environmental Health Nursing - Best Faculty Award 

St. Paul University Manila - Philippines

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc Prof Dr. Portia Villafuerte Zoleta-Vitug began her academic journey in nursing, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Emilio Aguinaldo College. This foundational degree paved the way for her commitment to healthcare and public service. Recognizing the need for a deeper understanding of management within public sectors, she pursued and completed a Master in Management with a major in Public Administration at the Philippine Christian University. Her thirst for knowledge and desire to impact development administration led her to achieve a Doctor of Philosophy in Development Administration from the same institution. These academic pursuits set a strong platform for her multifaceted career, blending healthcare with administrative acumen.

Professional Endeavors

Assoc Prof Dr. Zoleta-Vitug’s professional journey is marked by a diverse range of roles that showcase her versatility and commitment to healthcare and education. Starting as a staff nurse, she quickly transitioned to roles of greater responsibility, including an industrial nurse and an executive assistant in the office of the president in Parañaque City. Her career took a significant turn towards public health management when she joined international projects such as the USAID-funded Integrated Family Planning and Maternal Child Health and the World Health Organization-funded projects on infectious disease surveillance.

Since 2006, she has been an Associate Professor at St. Paul University Manila, where she imparts her vast knowledge to future healthcare professionals. Concurrently, she holds the position of Consultant and Operations Manager at Xavier School Batch 83 Foundation, indicating her proficiency in managing operations and strategic planning.

Contributions and Research Focus

Assoc Prof Dr. Zoleta-Vitug's research and publications primarily focus on public health, nursing education, and healthcare management. Her work includes significant contributions like the development of a Transcultural Nurse Program with international partnerships and her leadership in creating an environmentally based nursing program. Her publications address crucial issues in nursing practice and healthcare delivery, such as the development of advanced nursing practice in the Philippines and the integration of environmental considerations into nursing curricula.

Accolades and Recognition

Over her extensive career, Assoc Prof Dr. Zoleta-Vitug has received numerous awards that recognize her service and contributions to healthcare and education. These include a Centennial Award from St. Joseph’s Academy, a Service Award from St. Paul University Manila, and recognition for her active involvement in community service projects aimed at supporting Aeta communities and Philippine soldiers. Her academic and professional excellence was also acknowledged through a scholarship and an Ambassador of Goodwill role in Japan, reflecting her international repute and commitment to global healthcare education.

Impact and Influence

Assoc Prof Dr. Zoleta-Vitug's impact extends beyond the classroom and hospital settings into international health initiatives and community-based projects. Her leadership roles in various foundations and her active participation in rebuilding community centers demonstrate her commitment to societal development. As the Founding President of the Philippines Nurses Environmental Organization, she champions the integration of environmental health into nursing practice, emphasizing the importance of sustainable healthcare practices.

Legacy and Future Contributions

The legacy of Assoc Prof Dr. Zoleta-Vitug is characterized by her relentless pursuit of excellence in healthcare education and public health administration. Her ongoing projects, like the advanced nursing practice roundtable and her leadership in the preparation for the centennial celebration of the Philippine Nurses Association, suggest that her future contributions will continue to influence the fields of healthcare education and public administration profoundly. Her efforts in shaping the educational strategies and healthcare policies in the Philippines will likely provide a template for future healthcare improvements in the region and beyond.

Through her extensive career, Assoc Prof Dr. Zoleta-Vitug has proven herself a visionary in integrating education, healthcare, and administrative excellence to better the lives of people in her community and beyond. Her future endeavors will undoubtedly continue to impact and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals and administrators.

Notable Publication