SAVIR Member Spotlight: Sharon Gilmartin, MPH

I am particularly interested in upstream, community-level approaches to injury and violence prevention. I love the idea that we can support the needs of our communities by improving environments, supporting families, and equipping youth for the future – not only reducing injury and violence, but increasing overall quality of life and wellbeing. I was first introduced to the field by a family member who was working in suicide prevention. While I thought it’d be an introductory role in public health and that I’d move on to other pastures, I grew attached to the mission of the field and the tremendous people working in it. The people doing IVP work are a special kind of public health professional, and the work itself is so meaningful – this combination is what drew me to the field in the first place and continues to keep me here to this day.

I’ve been a member of SAVIR since 2009 – first personally and then through my organization. My favorite part continues to be the people comprising the organization, and the energy that these people bring when we meet in person.

The most rewarding aspect of my career has been working alongside passionate, dedicated people to make real changes that help communities. Whether it’s contributing to programs that prevent childhood injuries or supporting local efforts to reduce violence, it’s incredibly meaningful to see how small, thoughtful actions can lead to lasting impact. Being part of a field that values collaboration and truly cares about people keeps me motivated. And that collaborative nature has been more important than ever in recent months. While it is a challenging time to work in this field, I’ve been so impressed by the collective voice the field has developed to speak up on behalf of the work we do and grateful for my colleagues in the thick of it with me.

Sunshine and movement are the ingredients to a good time for me, so in an ideal world, my free time is spent hiking or pretending my two dogs are excellent walking companions. I also love to read, bake, and travel (not necessarily together or in that order!).