Our Staff

Portia is a public health and nurse scientist with an extensive background in research, academia, and health care. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Auburn University Montgomery and has worked in various acute care settings as a professional nurse. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing Education from Mercer University, a Master in Public Health from the University of South Florida, and a Doctorate in Nursing Science from Kennesaw State University. While completing her graduate studies, Portia served in different roles as a faculty member, epidemiologist, and postdoctoral associate, experiences which refined her knowledge and skills in research methods and data analysis. Her interest and dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) evolved from conducting health disparity and HIV prevention research.

 In Portia’s current role as Director of Research, she manages and oversees the development and implementation of the NDC Index. In collaboration with NDC leadership, staff, partners, and Index participants, she aims to produce comprehensive reports demonstrating opportunities for growth in DEI efforts. Through her work with NDC, she stays abreast of the current evidence in DEI best practices and trends in the workplace.