Distinguished Scientist Melissa Tibbits, Ph.D.

This profile is part of a series to highlight the researchers who will be honored at a ceremony for UNMC’s 2016 Scientist Laureate, Research Leadership, Distinguished Scientist and New Investigator Award recipients.

• Name: Melissa Tibbits, Ph.D.
• Title: Associate professor, UNMC Department of Health Promotion, Social & Behavioral Health, College of Public Health
• Joined UNMC: 2009
• Hometown: Tulsa, Okla.

Research focus:
Child and adolescent health

The goal of my research is to contribute to the development, implementation and evaluation of interventions that promote healthy child and adolescent development and prevent outcomes such as sexually transmitted infections, teen pregnancy and violence.

My research will make a difference because:
My research is designed from a public health practice lens, which aims to produce research findings that can be utilized by community partners to improve the health of children and adolescents.

The best advice I’ve ever been given is:
Years ago my mom gave me a figurine inscribed with this quote by Judy Garland: “Always be a first-rate version of yourself instead of a second-rate version of someone else.” That philosophy guides my personal and professional life.

Three things you may not know about me

• I love exercise, so I run and/or strength train several times a week.
• I planned to be a psychologist until I discovered interdisciplinary research in my last year of college.
• I enjoy going to musicals and the ballet.