Johanny N. Martinez is a Honduran-American hailing from Houston, Texas. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. Her commitment to public health led her to attain a Master’s in Public Health with a specialization in Environmental Health and certifications in Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security from the University of Illinois-Springfield. During her time at UIS, she served as the Vice President of the Public Health Student Association.

Johanny is an active and versatile member of several professional associations, including the Illinois Environmental Health Association (IEHA), Illinois Public Health Association, and the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Her professional experience encompasses roles as a Laboratory Scientist, a graduate assistant, and a Responsible Principle Investigator in various multidisciplinary fields.

Guided by strong moral values, Johanny is deeply invested in the well-being of her community, with a particular focus on supporting women and immigrants. She actively volunteers for the Springfield Immigrant Advocacy Network (SIAN), embodying her commitment to social justice and community service.

Johanny’s public health interests revolve around climate change, the built environment, and health justice. In her leisure time, she finds solace in enjoying coffee and cherishing moments with family and friends.