MPHI is successful in improving the health of communities because of the strength of our staff. We have more than 900 employees that includes researchers, data analysts, IT professionals, project managers, and scientists trained in a broad array of health fields.

Renée Branch Canady, PhD, MPA

Renée Branch Canady, PhD, MPA

Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Renée Branch Canady, CEO of MPHI, is a relationship-driven leader who advances our efforts to promote health and well-being with 30+ years working in public health. Formerly Health Officer at Ingham County Health Department, she holds a PhD from MSU, an MPA from WMU, and a BS from UNC Chapel Hill.

Christian Bethea, MBA

Christian Bethea, MBA

Chief Information Officer

Christian Bethea, CIO at MPHI, leads IT, computer systems and digital transformation efforts. Previously, he was Strategic Architecture Lead at Finastra and Sr. Director of Strategic Technologies at D+H. He holds dual degrees from MSU and an MBA from New York Institute of Technology.

May Darwish-Yassine, PhD

May Darwish-Yassine, PhD

Chief Program Officer

Dr. Darwish-Yassine, Chief Program Officer, oversees MPHI’s programs, mentors directors, and leads initiatives. With nearly 25+ years at MPHI, she specializes in chronic disease epidemiology and public health planning. She holds a PhD from the University of Michigan.

Jana Dean, CPA

Jana Dean, CPA

Chief Financial Officer

Jana Dean, CFO at MPHI, leads finance, contracts, payroll, and accounting. Previously, she was Finance & Operations Audit Manager at MSU and Senior Associate at Plante & Moran. She holds an MBA and accounting degree from MSU and is a CPA and CIA.

Paul Elam, PhD

Paul Elam, PhD

Chief Strategy Officer

Dr. Elam diversifies the Institute’s portfolio on health and well-being issues. Nationally recognized for his expertise in youth violence, crime, and child maltreatment, he consults with various clients to improve lives. He holds a PhD and two degrees from MSU.

Michelle Napier-Dunnings, MFA

Michelle Napier-Dunnings, MFA

Chief Communications Officer

Michelle leads communication and facilitation advancement at the Institute. With experience in government and business, she engages a wide range of stakeholders. Formerly, she was Director of Education at MSU’s Wharton Center and Executive Director at Michigan Food & Farming Systems.

Carmen Thomas, DTL

Carmen Thomas, DTL

Chief Government Relations Officer

Dr. Carmen Thomas, MPHI’s Chief Government Relations Officer, empowers organizations to reach their potential. She integrates community, government, and nonprofits as a transformational leader and servant leadership expert. Formerly, she was a Workforce Engagement Transformation Coach at MDHHS. In addition, Carmen worked with DTMB in the Real Estate Division and was an Ambassador for previous Director John Nixon.

Heather White, MSA

Heather White, MSA

Chief Administrative Officer

Heather White, MSA, has 30+ years in HR Management, overseeing recruitment, compensation, employee development, and relations at MPHI for 28 years. She holds an MSA in Human Resources from Central Michigan University.