Lifting Every Voice for Downstate

By Office of the President | May 6, 2025

Congratulations to Meliah McPhie, a student in Downstate’s School of Public Health student and a Brooklyn resident, who was recently recognized for her powerful op-ed supporting Downstate, published in the BK Reader. Drawing from personal experience and academic training, she described the institution as a vital source of healthcare, education, and opportunity for Central Brooklyn residents.

In her piece, she wrote, “Fixing the hospital complex is about more than money. It is about saving a community,” highlighting the need for sustained investment and thoughtful planning. Her perspective brings a critical community voice to the conversation on healthcare access and infrastructure in the borough.

Meliah’s advocacy reflects the pride, purpose, and rising leadership in young people ready to shape a healthier, more equitable future for Brooklyn and beyond.

Tags: School of Public Health