Collaborative Partnerships and Public Health
Jessica “Jessee” Beetch, PhD, is a T32 Cancer Disparities Trainee. She shares about her work in community health to improve access to care for people who test positive for HPV and is working on strategies to reduce barriers to HIV care. Read this spotlight to learn more about her background.
Tell us about your background.
I was born in Mankato, Minnesota, and lived there until I was 18. I completed my bachelor's degree at Minnesota State University in community health education. I’ve also lived in Oklahoma, where I completed my master's and PhD in epidemiology from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences. This led me to my postdoctoral program at the University of Minnesota, where I am a postdoctoral fellow in the T32 Cancer Disparities Training program. The T32 Cancer Disparities Training Program is a joint effort between the University of Minnesota Medical School and School of Public Health. The program seeks to train researchers who are prepared to conduct community-engaged research to develop, test, and disseminate interventions in both clinical and community settings to reduce cancer-related health disparities.
I’m in the final year of my two-year program. My first year gave me a deeper understanding of the Program in Health Disparities Research, and I have developed a strong appreciation for the individuals contributing to its success. Additionally, my second year presents a valuable opportunity to continue in community-engaged research.
What do you look forward to in the second year of the program?
My first year, I began with acclimating to my role, connecting with mentors, and adjusting my mindset as a PhD student. Over time, I have had more autonomy to use my best judgment on decisions and projects. I value the guidance of my mentors, and now I feel more confident using my own judgement and ideas. This change in growth and development includes the help of my mentors, Rebekah Pratt, PhD, and Kumi Smith, PhD. They have been supportive of all my work. Transitioning into the second year, I have more confidence, and I have built a strong network of support and connections.
What inspired you to pursue your current career?
I want to make an impact and contribute to community health. Specifically, to improve access to healthcare for all people. I also enjoy engaging with communities through discussions on health priorities. These interests influenced my decision to pursue public health.
My recent professional and academic experiences have deepened my interest in this work. They have shaped me into a well-rounded researcher. Having the opportunity to talk with faculty, conduct interviews in the community, and learn new methods has improved my training. My academic programs also taught me a lot about the importance of public health and effective intervention implementation and evaluation. These experiences further ignited my interest and passion to contribute to community health.
Can you share about your current work and research?
I have been working on two main projects, both focus on viral exposures in community settings. For one of them, I'm working alongside HACER and Dr. Pratt to identify barriers to care following a positive HPV screening result. With the increase in self-sampling, especially in rural communities, individuals who test positive may encounter difficulties in securing follow-up care or treatment. Identifying the barriers they face can help us develop strategies to ensure they receive the care they need.
For the second project, I am working with Dr. Smith in the School of Public Health. We are developing a telehealth intervention within syringe service programs in the metro area and in greater Minnesota. We are focusing on an intervention to reduce barriers to HIV care for people throughout Minnesota who use drugs.
What parts of the PHDR mission and values resonate with you?
I connect with the emphasis on conducting research with trusted partners. During my first year in the T32 Cancer Disparities Training program, it was meaningful to partner with people from various backgrounds. I had the opportunity to work with other researchers and community members. I learned that this is valuable and important to strengthen our work. When we connect with partners and work alongside them, it ensures our work reflects the needs and priorities of the community. To create change and research that benefits everyone, we need to collaborate with people on the ground, including trusted partners, and gather their input.
Are there hobbies you enjoy outside of work?
I love to do yoga and go on walks to grab a pastry. My favorite pastries are from Patisserie 46 and Black Walnut. I love trying new bakeries!
I also enjoy reading. Right now, I'm rereading Normal People by Sally Rooney, a book I find myself returning to often. I love collecting books and always have a long reading list that I’m eager to work through once the weather is colder.
You can connect with Jessica Beetch, PhD, at [email protected].
The T32 Cancer Disparities Training Program is a joint effort between the University of Minnesota Medical School and School of Public Health. It is funded by the National Cancer Institute, Grant T32 CA163184.
