Master of Public Health
Community Health Education
Temple University
Bachelor of Arts
Psychology
University of Maryland, College Park
After completing her undergraduate degree, Debbie Hammond had a life-changing experience. She taught fourth grade in Honduras at a bilingual school and volunteered with local organizations promoting community health and business development for women. Her time there inspired her to study public health when she returned to the United States. While earning her master’s in the subject at Temple University, she taught public health courses in subjects like Drug Use and Abuse, International Health and Emerging Health Issues.
Hammond went on to work for nonprofit organizations and urban health departments in Baltimore and Philadelphia. She enjoyed the challenge and excitement of collaborating with city agencies and community organizations to educate, plan for and respond to public health emergencies.
The birth of Hammond’s first child in 2011 led her back to her teaching roots. That year she started teaching part time in the Health, Fitness and Exercise Studies Department at AACC. She became full time in 2015 and is also now the coordinator of the college’s Public Health program. Hammond incorporates service-learning into many of her classes so her students get a chance to actively help the community as part of their coursework.
“I learn so much from our students' perspectives and experiences,” she said. “I enjoy helping students find their passion and next steps, while at AACC or post-graduation.”
