Alyson Shirley, a former Miss Navajo Nation and recent graduate of Arizona State University with a master’s degree in global health, is dedicated to addressing health disparities in Indigenous communities. Growing up on the Navajo Nation, Shirley witnessed firsthand the health challenges faced by her community, which fueled her passion for public health.
During her studies, she interned with the Arizona Advisory Council on Indian Health Care, where she contributed to grant proposals aimed at improving vaccine access and confidence among Native American populations. Shirley’s work focuses on developing culturally tailored health interventions that incorporate Indigenous languages and traditions. Her goal is to enhance health equity, improve access to healthcare, and empower Indigenous communities to lead their own health solutions.
See: “Former Miss Navajo Nation Continuing to Serve Community with Global Health Degree” (November 21, 2024)
See: “ASU Graduate Grew Up Observing Health Disparities in the Navajo Nation. She Wants to Help Solve the Issue” (2024)
