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Summary

Luis Chavez’s primary research interest lies in exploring the mental health disparities prevalent among underserved populations, with a particular emphasis on the Latinx community. He aims to delve into the multifaceted aspects of these disparities, seeking to understand the underlying causes and impacts, especially related to housing. A significant part of his focus is on developing strategies to address these disparities in ways that are both respectful and culturally appropriate, ensuring that interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs of the Latinx population. Additionally, he is deeply interested in examining the broader spectrum of health disparities faced by underserved groups in relation to mental health. This includes issues such as chronic stress, housing concerns and barriers to accessing adequate care. Luis’ goal is to contribute to a body of research that not only highlights these challenges but also proposes viable solutions to improve mental health outcomes for these communities.

Education

• B.S. in Sociology from the University of California, Riverside, 2018
• MPH in Public Health from California State University, San Bernardino, 2021
• Ph.D. in Public Health in Progress at the ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, TBD

Faculty mentor

Paul Devereux

Awards

• Ph.D. Student of the Year Award in Public Health, ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, 2024
• School of Public Health’s Student Development Award, ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, 2023
• Graduate Student Association Travel Award, ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, 2023
• Future Leaders Program, Western Region Public Health Training Center, 2023
• NSF GAIN Program, ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, 2021 - 2023
• Nevada Drive Scholar, University of Nevada Reno, 2021 - 2022
• School of Public Health’s Student Development Award, ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, 2022
• Graduate Student Association Travel Award, ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, 2022

Publications

• Chavez, L.**, Malik, N.*, & Kapella-Mshigeni, S. (2023). . Journal of School Health, 93(6), 515–520. 

Presentations

• Chavez, L. (2023, November 14). Neighborhood Support as a Moderator Between Bullying and Needing Mental Health Treatment. American Public Health Associations Annual Meeting and Expo, Atlanta, Georgia.
• Lensch, T., Scavacini, V., Etiler, N., Chavez, L., & Dermid, G. (2023, November). The impact of perceived social and emotional support on health behaviors for gender expansive adults in urban and rural communities. American Public Health Associations Annual Meeting and Expo, Atlanta, Georgia.
• Chavez, L., & Paul, D. (2023, September). A Descriptive Analysis of The Lingering Impact of COVID-19 on Nevada College Students. Nevada Public Health Association’s Annual Conference, Reno, Nevada.
• Chavez, L. (2023, September). Unmet Social Needs and Stress: Study on Nevadans. Western Region Public Health Training Center: Future Leaders, Digitally.
• Chavez, L. (2022, November). Hispanic Sexual Minorities and Bullying: An Intersectional Look. American Public Health Associations Annual Meeting and Expo, Boston, MA.
• Chavez, L. (2022, March 22). Are School Lunches Contributing to the Obesity Epidemic Among Children? [Oral Presentation]. SOPHE Annual Conference, Digital.