In May 2019, after 20 years of public health practice as an epidemiologist, Dr. Sandra Melvin founded and currently serves as the chief executive officer of the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health. The institute was founded in response to the need for development and implementation of public-health interventions that include the voice of the community and place health equity at the forefront of decision-making. Throughout her career, she has managed millions of dollars in federal, state and foundation funds for community-based public health programs designed to reduce health disparities among disadvantaged and minority communities in Mississippi. These projects have provided health education, outreach, training and prevention to thousands of Mississippians.