Marya Shegog started her public health career in the lab - doing research and scientific analysis for several federal and corporate entities.
But soon after, she said she realized there was a disconnect between what was happening with research in the field and what was actually happening in communities.
With a Ph.D. in public health from the University of South Carolina, Shegog completed her post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas.
Her training has led her to become an advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness in minority communities and developing cultural competency in health care professionals.
One of Las Vegas' greatest needs, she said, is bringing in more doctors of varying specialties.
As part of a series of profile interviews for Black History Month, KNPR is bringing in people who are trying to make a difference through their work in the Las Vegas community.
Marya Shegog, director of health programs, Lincy Institute at UNLV