Graduate Spotlight: Alena Zbirun
For Alena Zbirun, pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in Health Management and Policy was driven by a desire to create meaningful change in healthcare systems and improve access for underserved communities. Through her academic journey, she discovered a passion for healthcare accessibility, community outreach, and helping people navigate complex healthcare systems with greater confidence and understanding.
During her time in the program, Alena found inspiration through many mentors and colleagues, but one experience stood out most: her Practice Experience with Health Share of Oregon’s System of Care department. Working alongside her preceptor, Selby, gave her a new perspective on the power of public health work and the real impact healthcare systems can have on communities.
“She showed me that change and impact in healthcare and public health are actually possible,” Alena said. “Before that, I often heard people talk about making change, but I did not always see real action. That experience helped me understand that communities’ needs can truly be met and people’s lives can improve through this work.”
The experience also pushed Alena to grow professionally by building confidence, networking, and learning from the people around her. Through those conversations and experiences, she developed a stronger understanding of how collaboration and genuine community engagement contribute to better health outcomes.
Throughout graduate school, Alena credits her husband as her greatest source of support. From encouraging her when she decided to pursue a new path to standing beside her during moments of uncertainty, his support helped her navigate the challenges of balancing graduate school, work, and personal responsibilities.
“When I told him I wanted to do work that felt meaningful and impactful, he immediately supported me,” she said. “That support gave me confidence throughout school and reminded me that I could succeed no matter what path I chose.”
Following graduation, Alena plans to continue working in healthcare systems, public health, and community outreach while advocating for improved healthcare access and education. One of her long-term goals is to work with the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace to help individuals and families better understand and access health insurance resources.
As an immigrant herself, Alena understands how overwhelming and confusing the U.S. healthcare system can feel, especially for individuals and families navigating language barriers, cultural differences, and unfamiliar systems. Those experiences inspired her passion for helping immigrant and Slavic communities access healthcare with less fear and uncertainty.
“I want to help make healthcare feel less confusing, more accessible, and more human for people and communities,” she said. “I hope to continue improving healthcare access and helping people feel supported while navigating systems that can often feel overwhelming.”