Research Associate
Health Intervention Projects for Underserved Populations (HIPUP), Public Health Institute
Aya Hashimoto Tonsing grew up in Japan, and moved to the U.S. in 2000. It was a culture shock for Aya to experience the severe health disparities in the U.S. as a minority. This inspired her dedication to a career in Public Health to promote equity and increased access to health care in the U.S. Through working as a researcher and health educator for over a decade. She has a background in HIV/STI prevention in diverse populations, as well as mental health and wellness promotion. At the Public Health Institute, Aya works in multiple programs that serve a wide range of underserved communities.