SPEAKER
Dr. Shakira J. Grant
Assistant Professor, Division of Hematology, Associate Member Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Dr. Grant is an Assistant Professor and a Geriatric Hematologist-Oncologist with a clinical practice focused primarily on older adults with multiple myeloma. She is passionate about improving the outcomes and reducing the burden of multiple myeloma-related health disparities. Dr. Grant spends most of her time at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill engaged in patient and caregiver-centered research that provides a deeper understanding of the complex physical, emotional, social, and other structural challenges encountered by those affected by multiple myeloma. She applies an intersectional approach to her research, focusing on identifying and developing strategies to circumvent healthcare access barriers and improve individual health outcomes for those with multiple myeloma considered most socially disadvantaged (e.g., Black persons and those facing individual and community-level socioeconomic disadvantage). Dr. Grant enjoys having opportunities to engage with the community and the unique insights that this provides. This community-engaged approach ensures that her research is well-aligned with the community's priorities.
SPEAKER
Jiona Mills, MPH
Jiona is from Roanoke Rapids, NC, and is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she received a Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Behavior and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) in Health Policy and Management. She conducts qualitative research on disparities impacting individuals living with multiple myeloma and their informal caregivers. She is passionate about working with socioeconomically disadvantaged communities to develop strategies for improving community health education, access to care, and overall health and well-being.
