By Sarah Morgan Johnson
University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing alumna and Adjunct Clinical Instructor Tonya Moore, PhD, RN (PhD 2012), has been named a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellow. Moore is one of seven health professionals recognized by the National Academy of Medicine and RWJF for their outstanding accomplishments and interest in health policy.
Moore noted the key role nurses and other health care professionals play in developing health policy.
“This prestigious opportunity comes after a rigorous and highly competitive application process. With only around 300 alumni in its 50-year history, I am honored to join this esteemed community,” Moore said. “As a health care leader and educator, I recognize the pivotal role nurses play in influencing health policy. I am thrilled to be able to empower current and future health care leaders through policy engagement.”
As a RWJF Health Policy Fellow, Moore will spend a year in Washington, D.C. working on health-related legislation and policy development. The program kicks off with a three-month orientation, following a nine-month assignment in a congressional office or the executive branch.
During her time in D.C., Moore hopes to leverage her own experiences and knowledge to contribute to health policy outcomes in meaningful ways. She is looking forward to developing her role as a health care leader during her year as a RWJF Health Policy Fellow.
“It's truly a ‘wow’ moment for me as a nurse from Mississippi to join this respected network of RWJF Health Policy Fellows. This opportunity reinforces the importance of the work we do in the South and the impact it has. I am looking forward to sharing and expanding this vital work on a larger platform in Washington, D.C. and becoming a stronger voice in health policy,” Moore said.
