With a Master of Public Health from Concordia Nebraska, Brianna Loeck ’15 seeks to directly impact the well-being of others

Brianna Loeck ’15 has a master of public health in health policy and administration from Concordia University, Nebraska. She decided to take part in the university’s graduate-level education offerings because she was determined to advance both her education and her career. 

“I knew I wanted an online program that offered the flexibility I needed while still being connected to opportunities close to home,” she said.  

She said her experience Concordia Nebraska’s master of public health program was invaluable, citing the flexibility of the online program, the knowledge and experience of her instructors and the mission trip opportunities affiliated with the degree program.  

“I volunteered for two public health missionaries in Belize and Guatemala to contribute to community well-being and make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals in underserved areas,” she said. “Engaging in health outreach programs, I collaborated with local healthcare professionals to provide health education and deliver basic hygiene supplies to communities facing limited access to healthcare resources. Additionally, I conducted community health assessments, facilitated educational workshops and participated in community clinics.” 

Concordia Nebraska’s MPH program provided me with a strong foundation in public health, transforming my initial curiosity into a deep and lasting interest in the field.

She said her professors played a pivotal role in helping her discover her purpose by challenging her to think critically and explore areas he hadn’t considered before, especially as someone new to public health. 

“Concordia Nebraska’s MPH program provided me with a strong foundation in public health, transforming my initial curiosity into a deep and lasting interest in the field,” she said. “As someone who was new to public health, the program not only broadened my understanding but also sparked a passion that continues to drive my career.” 

She began her journey with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Epidemiology Unit as an administrative assistant, where she quickly advanced to the role of health surveillance specialist. Her continued dedication and expertise led to her promotion to epidemiologist, a position she has served in for nearly six years. 

“I oversee infectious disease surveillance for enteric and foodborne illnesses in Nebraska,” she said. “Additionally, I collaborate with local, state and federal agencies including the CDC, FDA, USDA and state and local laboratories, to investigate local and multistate outbreaks while also promoting food safety education. I analyze surveillance data on a daily basis to identify potential clusters or outbreaks within Nebraska communities. In addition, I actively seek opportunities to enhance data collection and reporting processes, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and efficiency. I also provide expert guidance and subject matter expertise to clinical laboratories, physicians, and local health departments, empowering them to effectively manage and respond to foodborne diseases.” 

She said being a foodborne epidemiologist is fulfilling because it allows her to protect public health by identifying and preventing the spread of diseases. She said it is rewarding to play a crucial role in safeguarding communities, as her work directly impacts people's well-being by reducing the incidence of foodborne illnesses. 

When students earn a Master of Public Health from Concordia University, Nebraska, they learn how to provide quality education, research, service and leadership to ultimately improve public health and diminish health disparities locally, nationally and globally. Concordia Nebraska’s flexible, on-line graduate programs allow students to study at their own pace, balancing education with personal and professional commitments.