Community Advisory Board highlights community-engaged research

The Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute Community Advisory Board (MEWI-CAB) continues to serve as a vital bridge between researchers and community stakeholders across Mississippi. Through open dialogue and shared learning, the board helps ensure MEWI-affiliated research reflects local priorities, lived experience and community-informed solutions.

In 2026, the board has welcomed two speakers whose work reflects the importance of trust, equity and collaboration in improving health outcomes.

On March 17, 2026, Dr. Susan Perez presented “A Strategic Framework for Building Trust Through Interdisciplinary Community Engagement in Mississippi.” Dr. Perez, a principal consultant with Woven, shared insights from her work in birth equity, quality improvement and systems change. Her presentation focused on strategies for building trust through community-rooted engagement and emphasized the importance of designing solutions that are accountable to the communities most impacted by health inequities.

On May 19, 2026, Dr. Osayande Agbonlahor presented “Using a Physician-Patient and Community Advisory Board to Address Health Care Discrimination and Improve Cardiovascular Outcomes for Black American Adults.” Dr. Agbonlahor, an assistant professor at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and MEWI affiliate faculty member, discussed research focused on cardiometabolic disease, health care quality and community-engaged approaches to addressing health care discrimination.

Together, these presentations underscored the continued value of the Community Advisory Board as a space for partnership and action. By connecting researchers with community expertise, MEWI continues to support research that is rigorous, responsive and grounded in the needs of Mississippi communities.