Leela Ramachandran is a Research Associate at the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts and has worked on the Community Health Needs Assessment reports and a Status of Gender Equity report. Leela’s background is in community organizing and advancing health equity, with previous experience in mixed-methods research, local public health initiatives, advocacy related to campus sexual violence, and mentorship of student activists. Her passion lies at the intersection of dismantling systems of oppression, centering historically marginalized populations, and decolonizing the field of public health. She received her bachelor’s degree in Public Health Sciences and a certificate in Civic Engagement and Public Service from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. In her free time, Leela enjoys reading, baking, and is an elected member of her local School Committee.