Kenya Bradley
Medical Disability Examiner and Public Health Student in Pensacola, Florida
My name is Kenya Bradley, and I am a student at the University of West Florida (UWF), currently enrolled in the Master of Public Health program. I am also dually enrolled in the Emergency Management and Infectious Disease certification program.
I began my career in health care by earning an Associate’s degree in Health Services Management from Pensacola State College. I later returned to complete my Bachelor’s degree in Public Health at UWF, graduating in 2022. That same year, I transitioned directly into the Master of Public Health program.
A turning point in my career came during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was in the core phase of my undergraduate studies at UWF and found myself abruptly shifting from the private healthcare sector into public service. It became clear that I had found my calling. My academic studies, professional experience, and passion for helping others all began to align. The work was larger in scope than I had ever imagined—and deeply rewarding.
As I navigated this new path, I felt a growing sense of urgency to apply my skill set in the field. A call to action led me to emergency management. I then, took on a role that allowed me to make a direct impact serving as a FEMA contractor, a “boots-on-the-ground” experience during disaster relief efforts after Hurricane Ian. I also had the pleasure of serving as a biological scientist with a county health department during the pandemic. I now serve as a Medical Disability Examiner for the State of Florida. Each day presents a new learning opportunity, keeping me challenged, engaged, and constantly growing. My academic training now aligns seamlessly with my professional experience and passion, and I am enthusiastic about continuing my journey in public service.