SAVIR Student Spotlight: Sammie Delcy, PhD-MPH(c)

Sammie Delcy, PhD-MPH(c), Public Health, MPH, University of Pennsylvania and Perelman School of Medicine

SAVIR was excited to welcome their first practicum student, Sammie Delcy from the University of Pennsylvania. She joined SAVIR for Fall 2025 as our first practicum student with a goal of enhancing her communications experience. It was an exciting opportunity for work with a talented student to support our outreach and communications efforts around National Injury Prevention Day and other SAVIR items.

What are your injury and violence prevention research interests?

My PhD research examines the underlying mechanisms, such as dysregulated inflammatory responses, that contribute to learning deficits following mild traumatic brain injury. From a public health perspective, I focus on injury prevention, particularly among children. I am also deeply committed to community-engaged and knowledge-translation initiatives that bridge the gap between scientific research and underserved populations. In addition to advancing research, I am passionate about using evidence to inform policy and advocacy efforts that promote equitable access to injury prevention resources and ensure that evidence-based strategies are both accessible and responsive to community needs.

What is something you enjoy about participating in a SAVIR committee as a student?

One of my favorite parts of being involved with SAVIR has been the opportunity to fully immerse myself in public health. As a scientist, I’ve often felt somewhat disconnected from people, since many of the interpersonal and communication skills essential to public health aren’t emphasized in traditional scientific training. Through SAVIR, I’ve connected with individuals who genuinely care about improving lives and it’s always refreshing to be in a space that priorities helping the public. I’m also learning so much about how to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, which is especially meaningful to me as someone who wants to make science communication a central part of my work.

What motivates you every day?

My community motivates me the most. I decided to pursue my degree after watching my family and loved ones struggle to feel seen and understood within the healthcare system. I realized that their needs cannot be addressed solely through public health efforts, it also requires advocating at the knowledge-creation stage. That’s why I chose to pursue research: to help generate new knowledge and resources while ensuring that information reaches the people it’s meant to serve.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I’ve really gotten back into reading lately which is super fun! I’ve also picked up running, which is apparently a phase that most grad student go through, so I’ve finally made it to that phase!