Morgan State University Baltimore, MD - Dr.P.H Public Health
Wesley Theological Seminary Washington, DC - M.Div Divinity
Morgan State University Baltimore, MD - M.P.H. Public Health
Xavier University of Louisiana New Orleans, LA - B.S. Biology

Dr. Mackessa Holt is a Lecturer of Health Education in the Department of Public and Allied Health (PAH) in the School of Community Health and Policy (SCHP). Mackessa pursued higher levels of education at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, LA, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She earned a Masters in Public Health and a Doctorate in Public Health at Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD. In addition, she earned Masters in Divinity from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. She is working on a Masters in Business Administration with a general concentration in the Earl Graves School of Business and Management at Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD.

Dr. Holt has taught and advised students in health education for over ten years. Her main courses focus on the foundation of health education and the social determinants of health. She uses multifaceted pedagogy to meet the diverse needs of the students inside and outside the classroom. Being a part of the student's learning process is one of the greatest joys of being an educator.

Dr. Holt has been engaged in several research studies on project management. In doing project management and coordination, she developed strong skills in planning, organizing, communicating, and evaluating complex and sensitive health initiatives. As a Project Manager for VALUE Baltimore, she supervised and supported the ambassador coordinator and the team of peer ambassadors who conduct outreach and education on COVID-19 prevention and vaccination among marginalized and underserved populations in Baltimore. She also deepened the relationship with the VALUE project, the Baltimore City Health Department, and the community stakeholders to ensure the project's alignment with the local needs and priorities. The work of VALUE Baltimore continues in Phase 2, where Dr. Holt is the Community Engagement Coordinator.

Publications

Grandison, T., Holt, M. James, X. & Yarber-Jarrett (2018). The Black Pearls Club: A Woman's Guide To Success In The Workplace. Outskirt Press.