Dr. Mary Roary received the University of Arizona’s Alumna of the Year Award for the Zuckerman College of Public Health at the university’s awards ceremony in February, and she also met with faculty and students from the college during her visit to Tucson.

Mary Roary, PhD ’08, MBA, received the University of Arizona’s Alumna of the Year Award for the Zuckerman College of Public Health at the university’s awards ceremony in February, and also met with faculty and students from the college during her visit to Tucson.

Dr. Roary currently serves as Chief Equity Officer of Behavioral Health Equity (OBHE) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). She visited The University of Arizona this February to accept her award as the 2023-2024 Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health Alumni of the Year.

In addition to participating in the UArizona’s Alumni of the Year luncheon (where she met President Robbins) and in the UArizona’s Alumni of the Year awards ceremony, Dr. Roary met with public health PhD students and faculty. During her acceptance speech at the awards ceremony, she emphasized the importance of hard work, perseverance, and the significance of working in public health. She highlighted the rewarding nature of a career in public health, emphasizing the impact it has on saving lives and promoting well-being. Her speech also touched on the importance of prevention, self-care, and reaching out for help when needed. It was a powerful message that inspired many in the audience to connect with her afterwards. Thanks Dr. Roary for inspiring us, and all that you do for so many diverse communities! 

View more photos on flickr > Watch Dr. Roary at the Alumuni of the Year Ceremony >

Mary Roary PhD '08 with President Robbins

Mary Roary PhD ' 08 with UA Foundation President & CEO John-Paul Roczniak and Dean Iman Hakim

Mary Roary PhD '08 with Dr. Claire Rial MPH '06

Mary Roary PhD '08 w Mary Derby PhD '08 and Darlene Lopez MA