Tufts MPH Alum Journeys: Beth Jonas, MPH24, Bridging Science, Public Health, and Advocacy

Beth Jonas’ trajectory is a testament to the power of combining scientific expertise with a passion for public health. From her start in radiation biology to her work in product safety, and now her vocation in advocacy, Jonas’ journey underscores how a Tufts Master of Public Health (MPH) can serve as a catalyst for meaningful change. Hear her story, highlighting how the MPH program at Tufts played a key role in shaping her inspiring trajectory.

The Journey to Public Health: From Science to Advocacy

Jonas’ academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Sciences, specializing in Nuclear Medicine from Oakland University. After an internship at St. John’s Hospital in Detroit, she was drawn to the research side of the field, which ultimately led her to pursue a PhD in Radiation Biology at the University of Iowa. There, she studied the effects of UV radiation on skin cancer development—a pivotal moment that ignited her interest in cancer research. Her groundbreaking research in collaboration with Procter & Gamble also laid the groundwork for what would become a successful career in the consumer products industry.

“My career trajectory took me into industry, where I led research and development efforts for major consumer product companies, including Unilever, Kimberly-Clark, Schering-Plough, and Mary Kay. I ultimately became the Chief Scientist for the U.S. cosmetic industry, serving as the scientific voice of the industry in Washington, D.C.”

After years of corporate leadership, Jonas transitioned to a more introspective phase of her career, retiring to Florida. During this time, she discovered a passion for public health.

“While hiking in Utah, I realized I was naturally drawn to public health topics—I was constantly listening to public health podcasts,” Jonas shares.

This realization led her to pursue an MPH in Population Health Promotion at Tufts University, where she could deepen her expertise and focus on policy and advocacy.

Why Tufts? A Natural Fit in Advocacy Work

Jonas was drawn to Tufts for both personal and professional reasons. She was impressed by Tufts’ strong focus on population health promotion and nutrition, areas that aligned perfectly with her interests in environmental health and consumer safety. A personal experience at Tufts Medical Center, where her husband received surgery, further solidified her belief that Tufts was the right place for her education.

“My decision was also influenced by a personal experience—my husband had surgery at Tufts Medical Center, and I was impressed by the quality of care and the expertise of the staff. That experience reinforced my belief that Tufts was the right institution for my public health education.”

Her time at Tufts allowed her to approach public health from a systems-level perspective, integrating scientific knowledge with the broader socio-political and environmental contexts that shape health outcomes. The program’s emphasis on evidence-based decision-making, health policy, and community engagement helped her develop a deeper understanding of the complex factors influencing public health.

“The MPH program at Tufts gave me a broader framework for addressing public health challenges and equipped me with tools to better analyze systemic issues and engage with stakeholders,” Jonas reflects.

Bridging the Gap: How Her MPH Empowers Advocacy

Jonas’ PhD and corporate experience provided a strong foundation in scientific research and product development. However, her MPH from Tufts added a critical layer of public health knowledge that enabled her to approach look at public health issues more holistically and though an equity lens.

“My MPH training helped me develop a more holistic understanding of risk assessment, health equity, and stakeholder engagement,” Jonas explains. “It gave me the skills to advocate more effectively for the issues that matter most.”

Although retired, Jonas continues to apply her MPH education in advocacy work. Her career has always intersected with public health, but it was her MPH that empowered her to take on more personally meaningful roles.

Jonas remains active in consulting and community initiatives. She serves as a guest reviewer for Cleveland Clinic’s Community Health Needs Assessment, where she’s gained insights into regional healthcare challenges, particularly the shortage of frontline healthcare workers. This motivated her and her husband to establish a nursing scholarship to address the social determinants of health that hinder students from completing their degrees.

Additionally, Jonas continues to apply her expertise in environmental sustainability. In Utah, she works with Utah Open Lands to implement sustainable land management practices, seeing Global One Health principles in action in rangeland conservation.

“My MPH provided me with tools to analyze systemic issues and develop evidence-based strategies in my committee and board work. For example, using a logic model when planning initiatives has been invaluable—something I wish I had learned earlier in my career.”

Looking Back: The Value of Public Health Principles

Before earning her MPH, Jonas viewed scientific challenges mainly through the lens of research and product development. While her industry experience involved regulatory work, environmental stewardship, and quality management, she now recognizes the value of integrating public health principles into her work earlier in her career.

“One example of public health intersecting with my career was my involvement in the Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015,” Jonas shares. “I provided scientific evidence on the environmental impact of plastic microbeads in personal care products. This experience highlighted the importance of bridging scientific research with policy to create meaningful change. I wish I had my MPH training before this advocacy work—it would have been incredibly valuable.”

Jonas also reflects on the importance of incorporating social determinants of health and stakeholder engagement into corporate decision-making.

 “While I always focused on scientific rigor and safety, a deeper understanding of public health principles would have made me a more effective advocate for both consumers and the industry.”

Advice for Future Public Health Leaders

Jonas’s experience offers valuable lessons for current and prospective public health students. Her advice: mentorship is a two-way street, and cultivating diverse relationships will broaden your perspective and provide invaluable learning opportunities. She encourages students to take risks and embrace new challenges in their careers—skills that will serve them well as they move into leadership roles.

She also stresses the importance of effective communication, especially in consulting roles where conveying complex scientific information to a variety of stakeholders is key. 

“Learn to present complex information clearly, whether it’s to the media, policymakers, or corporate executives. That skill will set you apart in your career.”

The Power of a Tufts MPH

Jonas’ story demonstrates how an MPH from Tufts can serve as a springboard for a fulfilling and impactful professional journey. 

Whether you’re drawn to research, policy, or community work, a Tufts MPH equips you with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to tackle the most pressing public health issues of our time.

Jonas’ story is a shining example of how public health can transform both careers and communities. For those considering an MPH, Jonas’ journey proves that this degree doesn’t just open doors—it helps you shape the future.

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