This fall, the USF College of Public Health (COPH) welcomes 653 new students as part of the incoming Class of 2026. Bringing diverse backgrounds, experiences and goals, these students share a common commitment to making a difference in public health.
The class spans undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs, with 453 students pursuing bachelor’s degrees, 173 enrolled in master’s programs and 20 beginning doctoral studies.
The Class of 2026 also brings a strong academic foundation, with an average GPA of 4.56. Students come from across the country and around the world, including 183 from outside Florida and 33 international students representing 19 countries.
Here are few Bulls representing the incoming Class of 2026.
Emilio Pierre joins the master of health administration Fall 2026 cohort as a returning Bull. He earned an undergraduate degree in health sciences with a concentrations in biological health science and health care administration from the COPH, as well as a minor in political science.
Emilio Pierre, BSHS (Photo courtesy of Pierre)
Growing up around family members in health care in Orlando, Fla., Pierre developed an interest in improving the way health care organizations operate. “I advocate for change rather than settling for the given norm,” he said.
His professional experience has given him a unique perspective on leadership and operations. As a complex assistant guest services manager at The Vinoy, a historic hotel located in St. Petersburg, Fla., Pierre said he has led teams and worked across operations, financial management and process improvement. He recently helped reduce peak-hour wait times by up to 25 minutes and wait-related complaints by more than a third by rethinking staffing and communication.
“My path here hasn't been the typical one,” Pierre said. “I got to this program by way of parking garages, hotel lobbies and 400-vehicle events gone sideways, not a lab coat. But I think that's exactly why I'm excited to be part of this cohort, because I'm bringing a perspective grounded in what it actually takes to run operations and lead a team under pressure. I'm ready to build on that with the frameworks and language this program will give me.”
Pierre said his goal is to end up in an executive role at a Tampa Bay health system, building the kind of culture where staff are supported and patients feel it.
“I'm proud to be continuing that work at my alma mater, surrounded by people who are just as invested in getting it right,” he said.
Incoming student Kaitlyn Kane also began her journey with an unconventional entry into public health. She is pursuing a master of public health in epidemiology.
“Funnily enough, I was inspired to pursue a degree in public health from TikTok,” Kane admitted. “It was from a public health professional sharing why they loved the field and I realized how it aligned with many of my own beliefs. It was completely random based on my algorithm at the time, but I’m glad I saw it. I was excited to learn of all the possibilities in the field when I went down a rabbit hole researching public health and after that day I decided to take the introductory class!”
Kane works as a health educator with the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, providing community classes and presentations focused on reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and hypertension. She also previously worked with older adults with dementia through an art intervention program, gaining experience in community-based programming and evidence-based public health initiatives.
“I chose to attend the COPH because it is well established, respected and has ample opportunities and support for its students,” Kane said.
She also said she plans to explore her interests in epidemiology, infection control and health education while working toward her goal of advancing health equity.
“I am very grateful to have joined the COPH,” she said. “I cannot wait to dive into the classes and meet my cohort!”