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Promising Practices Conference on
Community Health

Introducing Our Keynote Speakers
Promising Practices Conference on Community Health
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Keynote Speaker
Dr. Shakiera Causey
Keynote Talk:
"Clearing the Air: Strengthening Families to Combat Vaping,
Smoking, and Cancer for Healthier Communities"
Keynote Speaker Bio - Dr. Shakeria Causey
Dr. Shakiera Causey is a dedicated community health research scientist with a passion
for advancing public health through evidence-based research and advocacy. With a
background in human development and family studies, psychology, epidemiology and
health policy, Dr. Causey specializes in analyzing social determinants of health, health
disparities, and community-based interventions. Their work focuses on translating
research into actionable policies that promote health equity and improve access to care
for underserved populations.
As the founder of Higher Cause Consulting, Dr. Causey leads initiatives that empower
communities through education, policy advocacy, and collaborative partnerships with
healthcare providers and policymakers. Their efforts and work have been shared
domestically and internationally, centering on the health experiences of communities of
color. Dr. Causey remains committed to fostering healthier, more equitable communities
through research-driven advocacy and grassroots engagement.

Keynote Speaker
Dr. Joseph Francis
Keynote Talk:
"Revealing the Hidden Dangers: Oncogenic Effects of Flavored E-Cigarette Exposure"
Keynote Speaker Bio - Dr. Joseph Francis
Dr. Francis’ research interest is on understanding the role played by central nervous
system cytokines in the pathophysiology of heart failure, hypertension, and renal
diseases. In the last decade, he has started working on inflammatory molecules in the
brain in post-traumatic stress disorder. More recently, his interest has shifted to
understanding plant-based therapies in modulating cancer and post-traumatic stress
disorder. Dr. Francis uses pharmacological and non-pharmacological intervention
including blueberries in his research.