ALBERT WU, MD, MPH

President


Dr. Wu: Leading Healthcare Innovator and Mentor

Dr. Wu, a healthcare expert with BA and MD degrees from Cornell, is a renowned figure in the industry. As the Fred and Juliet Soper Professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, he oversees the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Services & Outcomes Research and mentors over 100 individuals. Dr. Wu's research focuses on patient outcomes and care quality, notably in HIV trials and integrating patient-reported outcomes into health records. With a strong emphasis on safety, he collaborates with the Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and the World Health Organization. As editor-in-chief of the Journal of Patient Safety and Risk Management, Dr. Wu has published extensively and led various academic programs related to healthcare quality and safety. His involvement in clinical practice and community initiatives underscores his commitment to advancing healthcare equity.

Patricia Barger

Executive Director

Mrs. Patricia: Empowering Communities Through Leadership and Advocacy

Mrs. Patricia, a Baltimore native, has served the city for 46 years with commitment. She holds degrees in Mental Health and Business Administration, currently pursuing a Doctorate. As the new Executive Director, she leads with experience in developing group homes, support groups, foster parent training, and more.

Chevelle Bash

CHW Grant Program Manager


Chevelle Bash: Championing Community Health and Equity

Meet Chevelle Bash, a seasoned community advocate with 20+ years leading Managed Care and Non-Profit Organizations in Maryland. Specializing in addressing SDOH, lead poisoning, asthma, and healthy homes. Collaborates with United Healthcare, Baltimore Healthy Start, Coventry Healthcare, St. Agnes Hospital. Holds a BS in Business Administration, CHW, PMP certifications. Dedicated to promoting health and building community partnerships for underserved populations.

JANICE DENISE GENTRY, BS, MPA

VICE PRESIDENT

Janice, from East Baltimore, is a mother of 6 with over 40 years of community advocacy. She held various roles on local boards, focusing on enhancing community life. With degrees from Morgan State University and Capella University, she managed HUD housing projects. Janice is known for her publication "Bridging Families To Better Communities" in 1997. She enjoys family time, supporting the community, and mentoring youth.

LEON C. PURNELL

Treasurer

Mr. Purnell, a lifelong East Baltimore resident, attended Baltimore City Public School System and received scholarships. He graduated from Morgan and Coppin State Colleges with degrees in Social Science and Education. With experience as a counselor and therapist, he became the Men's Center director in 1997. Mr. Purnell impacts health disparities by providing assessments, teaching life skills, and offering support to strengthen families. He is involved in various organizations including Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference Baltimore Chapter.

Emily Kumpf

Research Associate

Emily is a research associate working with Baltimore CONNECT and the Center for Research and Policy. She recently completed her MPH at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health with certificates in adolescent health and injury/violence prevention. She is passionate about promoting health equity for children, families, and communities. Emily’s work draws from her background in community engagement, youth services, mental health, and advocacy. In her free time, she loves running, aerial dance, being in nature, connecting with friends, and writing. 

Minli Guo

social media coordinator

Minli, a distinguished alumna of the 2023 Master of Marketing Analytics program at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. Minli brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our community, with a strong commitment to understanding the needs of Baltimore residents. Currently serving as a Marketing Analyst in the biotechnology sector, Minli is dedicated to deepening her understanding of the healthcare industry and infectious diseases. This commitment allows her to contribute with enhanced professionalism and insight to Baltimore CONNECT and make a difference.

Katherine Kim

Community outreach assistant

Katie is a Master’s student at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and recently moved to Baltimore! She graduated from the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor in 2023 with a BS in Economics and is currently pursuing a MHS in Health Economics & Outcomes Research. Katie is passionate about the equitable delivery of health care and has several years of experience in healthcare as well as in community outreach organizations. In her free time, Katie enjoys exploring Baltimore, practicing latte art, discovering new music, and spending with friends. She is so excited to be a part of the Baltimore CONNECT Team!

Big recognition to our program Administrator

Veena Thamilselvan and Ethan Wang are truly inspiring individuals who have generously dedicated their time to Baltimore CONNECT. Despite their busy schedules, pursuing physician and medical school programs, they continue to support this important cause and help.