YaMaya Barley’s journey into becoming a double Bull at USF’s College of Public Health (COPH) is a story of passion, perseverance and a deep commitment to improving the well-being of communities. Originally from Rochester, N.Y., but raised in Tampa, Fla., Barley’s academic and professional path has been shaped by her desire to make a difference in public health.
Barley’s academic journey began at Hillsborough Community College (HCC), where she earned her associate of arts degree in 2019.
"I became interested in public health as a member of the HCC American Medical Student Pre-Health Chapter," she explained. "The chapter hosted volunteer work and community service throughout Tampa and I really enjoyed being involved."
It was during her time with this chapter that she had the opportunity to attend the National American Medical Student Association Conference in 2019, an experience that further ignited her interest in public health.
"The chapter paid for me and other members to attend the conference. It was there that I learned more about public health and health inequities," she recalled.
After Barley graduated with her bachelor of science in public health in 2021, her decision to continue at the COPH for her graduate degree was not by chance.
Barley, pictured second from left, presented at USF Research Day on March 3, 2023, alongside fellow alumni. Pictured (L-R): Shelby Davenport, Sara Stubben, Yanna de Koter, and Isabela Solis. (Photo courtesy of Barley)
"I chose the COPH for my master of public health degree because of their Center of Excellence in Maternal and Child Health," she shared. "I’m passionate about women’s health and maternal health, and I’m grateful I was able to focus on those topics during my graduate studies."
Reflecting on her time in the program, Barley was quick to mention the unique and enriching experiences that shaped her journey.
"I really enjoyed how diverse my cohort in the maternal and child health (MCH) concentration was," she said. "It was also great learning from the faculty. They were passionate about their work, which made the learning environment even more engaging."
She went on to explain that the team at the Center of Excellence in MCH had a significant impact on her.
"They were always innovative with their programs. I worked with the center as a communications specialist and graduate research assistant. They consistently pushed for students to get the best training," she added.
One of Barley’s proudest moments she said came when her research, completed as part of a graduate course, was published in December 2024.
"It was my first co-authored publication and it focused on human papillomavirus vaccine hesitancy," she said. "Seeing my work published was definitely a milestone in my academic career!"
Barley’s time at the COPH wasn’t just about academics. It also marked the beginning of her career in public health.
"My first public health career experience was as a program coordinator for Hillsborough County in the Aging Services Department," she recalled. "I worked on the volunteer team and saw firsthand how seniors fostered community at their local senior centers. It was inspiring."
Barley earned her master of public health degree with a concentration in maternal and child health in 2023.
Today, Barley is a public health analyst for the federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) in the Bureau of Primary Health Care. She works within the Office of Health Center Investment Oversight, Strategic Services Unit[CK2] , supporting the office’s investments through communication planning and policy development.
"I’m really proud of my role at HRSA," she said. "It’s been an incredible experience to contribute to public health at the federal level."
One of the key moments in her career came when she graduated from the HRSA Scholars Program, a one-year program designed to develop future public health leaders within the federal government.
"As a scholar, I rotated through three different offices and bureaus before matching into a permanent position," Barley explained. "The program was a great opportunity to explore public health career options in the federal government and it really helped me incorporate my public health education into my work."
Barley’s graduation from the HRSA Scholars Program. (Photo courtesy of Barley)
For Barley, this achievement represents the culmination of years of hard work, but she remains motivated by a desire to continue making a difference.
"I’m so grateful for the opportunities I’ve had," she said.
Barley said as she continues her career, she is excited to contribute more to public health on a larger scale, especially in areas related to maternal and child health.
Fast Five
What did you dream of becoming when you were young?
I wanted to bake cakes!
Where would we find you on the weekend?
At a park walking my dog or at home reading a book
What is the last book you read?
“I’m Glad My Mom Died” by Jennette McCurdy
What superpower would you like to have?
I would love to be able to fly.
What’s your all-time favorite movie?
Toy Story