5 Questions with Brandon Lewis

ALBANY, N.Y. (Aug. 5, 2021) - Staff at the School of Public Health are passionate about helping students graduate ready for successful careers. We sat down with Undergraduate Program Coordinator Brandon Lewis to learn more about him and his work. Lewis received a master of science in college student personnel administration from Canisius College and a bachelor of arts in sociology from Le Moyne College. 

What led you to become the undergraduate program coordinator?

Originally, my plan was to become a high school guidance counselor. However, after working closely with staff and faculty throughout my undergraduate and graduate careers, my passion shifted from high school students to college students. Before coming to UAlbany, I worked as a higher education opportunity program counselor at Le Moyne College and a residence hall director at Iona College. Yearning to return home, I accepted a position in the Academic Support Center at the University at Albany, where I served as an academic advisor for two years. In hopes of expanding my skill set, working with a new population of students and learning more about public health, I started my journey as the undergraduate program coordinator in March, 2020.

What is your favorite part about your job?

The students are my favorite part of the job. Not only are they hilarious and make me laugh, they give me hope for a brighter future as they learn and grow to become esteemed public health practitioners. Their commitment to create positive change and challenge status quo will undoubtedly uplift and empower marginalized communities in all aspects – education, health care, legal affairs, environmental issues and so forth. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to students?

Ask for help! The staff and faculty want to provide you with a remarkable college experience, but you have to meet us halfway. All of our jobs exist because of students, so utilize the resources offered.

What public health topics are you most interested in?

As a Black man, any topic focused on improving the realities of the BIPOC community resonates with me; however, at this current time, one topic that is capturing my attention is criminal justice reform with a focus on formerly incarcerated women and trans women. One of my good friends who works in the field recently facilitated a panel on this topic, which was very insightful and inspiring. If you would like to see the recording, feel free to email me at [email protected].

What are some fun facts that not a lot of people know about you?

• I watch the Avatar: The Last Airbender series once a year
• I plan my Halloween custom months in advance
• I am in an only child
• I want to be a contestant on Big Brother (CBS) in the near future