Profile: LuBeth Perez, PhD, MPH

Biography

Dr. LuBeth Pérez serves as the Director of Community Health Partnership Programs and as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Population Health and Biostatistics at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine. She earned a Ph.D. in Health Science and a Master of Public Health from Nova Southeastern University, with additional training in respiratory therapy and American Sign Language.

Dr. Pérez oversees the Area Health Education Center (AHEC) clinics, which provide primary health care services to community members and hands-on learning opportunities for health profession students, and directs the AHEC Scholars program. Dr. Pérez also serves on the School of Medicine admissions committee and as a Wellness Champion for the University.

Her research interests and advocacy focus on lung health, tobacco control, and tobacco prevention and cessation policies, with particular emphasis on reducing tobacco-related harms among youth and vulnerable populations. She has led initiatives in chronic disease prevention, health promotion, and community engagement, including programs addressing diabetes and other health challenges in underserved communities.

Nationally, Dr. Pérez serves in leadership roles within the American Public Health Association as Program Chair for the Public Health Education and Health Promotion section, ensuring academic rigor for the annual scientific sessions. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Membership Committee and as a member of the Policy Committee in the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs section. She is a Certified in Public Health Ambassador and serves on the CPH exam committee, reflecting her commitment to advancing public health through research, education, wellness advocacy, and community partnerships.