Krista Hanni is a distinguished public health advocate and community leader who has served Monterey County for over two decades. Krista holds a Ph.D. in epidemiology from the University of California at Davis, plus more than 25 years of experience in epidemiological and public health research and planning. Monterey County was the lucky beneficiary of her wealth of expertise and commitment to advancing the field of public health.
Since 2002, Krista has been a cornerstone of the Monterey County Health Department (MCHD). Recently retiring as the Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Manager, she oversaw projects focused on Health in All Policies, health equity, access to care, and accreditation, dedicating her career to addressing health disparities and community well-being.
Krista’s commitment to local community empowerment is exemplified through her leadership in implementing the Health in All Policies approach, aiming to reduce health inequities and create healthier environments where everyone can thrive. Her work with various coalitions, including East Salinas’ Building Healthy Communities and the Early Childhood Development Initiative, underscores her passion for fostering community collaboration and empowerment.
Notably, Krista has been instrumental in the success of the VIDA program, a groundbreaking initiative launched during the Covid-19 pandemic to provide resources to vulnerable communities in Monterey County. As a policy manager at MCHD, she played a pivotal role in utilizing community health workers to reach individuals where they are, ensuring culturally accessible health resources and information.
Under Krista’s leadership, the VIDA program has evolved into a model of community-based public health intervention, recognized for its effectiveness in building trust and bridging gaps in healthcare access. Her vision and dedication have led to the expansion of the program, including the establishment of the Farmworker Resource Center, furthering efforts to support underserved communities.
In addition to her work at MCHD, Krista is actively involved in various community organizations, including serving as President of the YWCA Monterey County Board of Directors. Through her involvement, she advocates for racial equity, women’s empowerment, and social justice, embodying the values of compassion and inclusivity.
Krista’s impact extends beyond her professional endeavors, as she also serves on the Evaluation Advisory Committee for first 5 Monterey County, contributing to efforts aimed at supporting families and promoting early childhood development.
As this year’s Ben Heller Award recipient, Krista Hanni is celebrated for her steadfast commitment to public health, her pioneering strategies for community empowerment, and her relentless endeavors to foster a healthier and fairer future for every resident of Monterey County. The Center for Community Advocacy commends Dr. Hanni for her unwavering dedication to enhancing living standards and healthcare in Monterey County. Her exemplary leadership and unwavering resolve serve as a beacon, inspiring us all to pursue constructive change and social justice within our communities.