Kelechi Dimgba

Kelechi Dimgba was born in Rochester, New York, and is a first-generation Nigerian American.  She will graduate from Allegheny College in May 2023 with a B.S. in Global Health Studies and a minor in Biology.  During her undergraduate studies, she conducted research for the Consortium of Universities for Global Health as a Global Health Research Intern and worked at Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield as a Segment, Strategies, and Performance Intern, where she acquired leadership and adaptive skills, including research, writing, and presentation development.  As a student at Allegheny College, she was a member of the Minority Association of Pre-medical Students for students who wish to pursue a career in global health as well as the Global Scholars Program, where she investigated topics through the lens of a relevant global theme and engaged in diverse communities and cultures as mindful leaders.  Kelechi was the chapter secretary for the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, and the Black Girl Magic Organization.  Their purpose was to engage in the holistic development of Women of Color to support growth and bond through civic, academic, personal, and social tenets.  As a first-generation Nigerian American, giving back to the global community has played an essential role in her life.  Kelechi has volunteered at nonprofits, including the Children s Center with the Hall of Justice in Rochester, NY.  This was a haven for children whose parents were attending court.  There, Kelechi read to children, relieving the stress of difficult family situations and providing community outreach to their parents.  This experience helped her understand that much work is needed in the community to assist families experiencing demanding situations.  In the fall of 2022, Kelechi studied abroad at Lancaster University in the United Kingdom, where she studied global citizenship and made connections that crossed borders and continents.  She has also traveled abroad and visited her father’s home country of Nigeria, where she realized there is a need to empower women and eliminate healthcare disparities.

These experiences have fueled her desire to become a Population/Health/Nutrition (PHN) Officer to protect the United States from cross-border health threats.  She will earn a Master s Degree in Public and Global Health Administration.  She is honored to be a Payne Fellow and will honor the legacy of Donald M. Payne on behalf of underserved communities.