SAVIR Member Spotlight: Jill Davison, MPH

Jill Davison, MPH, Program Director, Injury Prevention Research Center at Emory, Department of Emergency Medicine

Tell us about your areas of interest within injury and violence prevention. Why did you decide to pursue a career in this field?

I’ve worked across several areas of public health, but injury and violence prevention stands out because it is a field driven by both evidence and humanity. At its core is a commitment to equity, systems improvement, and creating conditions that allow individuals and communities to thrive. What draws me to this work is that the impact is tangible. Injury and violence touch all of us in some way throughout our lives, and thoughtful changes to policies, systems, and programs can directly improve health, safety, and well-being at a population level. Being part of work that can create meaningful, lasting change is both motivating and rewarding.

How long have you been a member of SAVIR? What has been your favorite part about being involved with SAVIR?

I’ve been a member of SAVIR for four years, and the sense of community is what I value most. SAVIR is an incredibly welcoming and supportive organization where people genuinely want to help each other succeed. I’ve been consistently impressed by the willingness of members to share expertise, build connections, and explore opportunities for collaboration. The organization also recognizes the challenges that come with conducting research in injury and violence prevention and fosters an environment where members feel supported both professionally and personally.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been seeing how public health prevention efforts bring together diverse disciplines to solve complex problems. Some of the most meaningful progress happens at the intersections of fields, where different perspectives create innovative solutions. Collaborating across sectors has shown me that lasting impact often comes from working together in new ways and finding opportunities where others may not initially see them.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I little bit of everything 😊 because I’m happiest when I’m exploring something new, even when I’m not particularly good at it. For me, the fun is in the journey and the opportunity to see the world from a different perspective. The list of things I don’t enjoy is actually much shorter, though I can confidently say that watching TV and fishing are near the top of it.