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Elena L. Navas, PhD, MS

Founder/CEO

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Who I Am

I combine a solid scientific background as a biochemist and molecular biologist (Northwestern University) with my experience as an epidemiologist (MS) and community health scientist (PhD), specialized in health behavior and promotion (University of Illinois at Chicago).

Currently, I hold key roles as:

  • Adjunct faculty and researcher at the UIC School of Public Health
  • Public health researcher affiliated with Northwestern University
  • Author of numerous scientific publications in internationally prestigious journals

My Career Path and Commitment

My professional career over the last three decades has focused on developing community-based participatory action research (CBPR), working specifically to eliminate gaps in diversity, equity, and inclusion affecting vulnerable communities in areas of health, wellbeing, and education.

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Leadership in Action

In 2017, I brought my vision for social transformation to life by founding the Global Health Beat Foundation (GHBF), a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming lives through education and disease prevention.

As executive director of GHBF, I lead collaborative initiatives with communities in both Colombia and the Chicago metropolitan area, developing innovative programs that:

  • Promote health education and healthy behaviors
  • Strengthen social cohesion
  • Empower communities to proactively manage their health and wellbeing

My approach integrates scientific rigor with cultural sensitivity to create sustainable solutions that generate real and measurable impact for populations that need it most.

I'm delighted to welcome you to my practice!