Charlotte Maternal and Child Health Workgroup
Mission and Vision
The Charlotte MCH Workgroup was founded in 2022 by Dr. Hopper alongside three public health graduate students—Dr. Kandice Lacci-Reilly, Dr. Shanika Jerger Butts, and Tayla Suitte.
Our mission is to create pathways for intersectional collaboration, strengthening effective and comprehensive maternal and child health (MCH) efforts that directly benefit the community.
We envision a Charlotte where interdisciplinary partnerships drive meaningful change in the maternal and child health experience—empowering individuals, families, and communities to thrive.
Meet Our Team
Faculty Leaders
Our workgroup is proudly co-led by dedicated faculty members from the Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, combining diverse expertise and collaborative leadership to advance our mission. Click to learn more about Drs. Hopper, Dahl, and Desloge.
Student Leaders
The workgroup was founded and continues to benefit from the support of our student leaders. Join the Charlotte MCH Workgroup and immerse yourself in impactful maternal and child health initiatives in the Charlotte area. As a student, you can:
- Engage in research projects
- Attend workshops and seminars
- Volunteer with community outreach efforts
Participating in the MCH Workgroup enhances your academic journey, offering real-world public health experience. Develop your skills, network with professionals, and make a meaningful impact on maternal and child health in the Charlotte community. We have dedicated student leaders who help to shape the direction of the Workgroup.
Crucial Conversations Speaker Series
Crucial Conversations in Maternal and Child Health (MCH), our monthly speaker series tackling pressing issues and exploring innovative solutions in the field. Each month , we feature expert speakers and thought leaders who share diverse perspectives and insights. Be part of the conversation as we exchange ideas, deepen our understanding, and work toward meaningful change in MCH. If you are interested in leading a session please let us know!
Check out past conversations on our Youtube Channel!
Activities and Events
The workgroup has hosted a number of events including a writing group, campus wide film screen and panel discussion. Stay informed about our latest activities and opportunities to get involved with the Charlotte Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Workgroup. Join us in our efforts to improve maternal and child health in our community.
Respectful Maternity Simulation
On April 11, 2025, the Workgroup along with UNC Charlotte’s School of Nursing hosted a third Respectful Maternity Simulation to improve maternal and infant health outcomes, especially in minority communities. This hands-on event, a collaboration with the Department of Epidemiology and Community Health and First Team America, LLC, emphasized equitable, patient-centered care through realistic, culturally relevant scenarios. Participants role-play different real-life scenarios to create awareness to improve the maternal patient experience. The simulation is open to anyone with general interests in maternal child health.
Preconception Peer Education
SHAPE (Students Helping Advance Preconception Education)
We are excited to serve as a program site for the NC Preconception Health Peer Educator Program. Our trained peer educators work to engage their peers in the Charlotte campus and surrounding community. Our educators are available for speaking engagements on a number of important topics, including:
– Preconception and reproductive health
– Maternal and infant health disparities
– Men’s preconception health
– Preconception Health and Contraception
– And MORE
Whether you’re planning a campus event, community workshop, or panel discussion, SHAPE educators are ready to spark meaningful, peer-to-peer conversations that raise awareness and promote better health outcomes.
Want to Learn More?
Follow our students on Instagram @SHAPE_UNCC and get in touch to schedule a session or explore how SHAPE can support your event!
Internship Opportunities
Explore hands-on learning experiences through our internship opportunities. Our workgroup partners with organizations that offer internships in Maternal and Child Health (MCH), providing students with valuable real-world experience. These internships allow students to apply classroom knowledge to practical settings, preparing them for future careers in the field. Engage with us and gain the skills and experience needed to make a difference in the lives of mothers and children.
Alumni Networking
Many of our alumni have transitioned into impactful roles in the field of MCH, making a difference in communities around the globe. Their journey from student to professional exemplifies the impact of our workgroup in shaping the next generation of MCH leaders.
Community Partners
The workgroup is proud to collaborate with a number of local organizations in the Charlotte area, click on the logo to visit their sites!
Recent News
- Dr. Dahl selected as 2025 Gambrell Faculty Fellow January 28, 2025
- University Workgroup Brings Awareness to MCH Issues December 2, 2024
- Respectful Maternity Care Simulation November 15, 2024
- Dr. Hopper named MCH Faculty Fellow March 12, 2024
- Queen City News Covers Aftershock Screening July 5, 2023
Contact Information
For more information about the Charlotte Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Workgroup, or to get involved, please reach out to us and join our email list:
Email: lhopper6@charlotte.edu
Phone: 704-565-9267