“Ms. Perry is a passionate, dedicated student, researcher, and caregiver. She brings all three of these roles to her work … and we are all better scholars for it.”

Morgan Perry is earning her PhD in Health Management and Policy with a commitment to centering people in her work. Growing up, Morgan watched several family members struggle with addiction and depression — an experience that many of her friends shared. She started to see a pattern of disparities in who experienced these illnesses and who had access to needed care. In response, Morgan tenaciously pursued an educational path that would equip her to address these disparities and help those who need it most.

Morgan earned her bachelor’s degree in women’s studies and master’s degree in public health while balancing two jobs and raising her two children. As a PhD student, she continues to channel her personal experiences and challenges in her work to help others. Morgan’s advisor remarks, “Ms. Perry is a passionate, dedicated student, researcher, and caregiver. She brings all three of these roles to her work … and we are all better scholars for it.”

Morgan’s current research focuses on implementing successful policy and programmatic strategies for low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities, prioritizing person-centered care. Recognized as a “creative and resilient researcher,” Morgan hopes to increase the effectiveness and equity of care delivery for people in communities that are often underrepresented or understudied. She is committed to ensuring her work is informed by the communities it affects and is built within a framework of action.

An accomplished scholar and public health analyst, Morgan is dedicated to advocating for and empowering others in all areas of her life. She is a member of the Policy and Advocacy Collaborative through the American Society on Aging, where she works to translate research into action, and a proud community volunteer fostering opportunities for her and others’ children. Morgan’s children are her inspiration, and spending time with them is her anchor.

CEW+ is inspired by Morgan’s commitment and names her the Christine Kahan Black Scholar.