Today we’d like to introduce you to Norma Olvera.
Hi Norma, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I came to Houston in 1982 as a young woman who just married an American in Mexico, When I came to the United States I did not speak English, so I began taking English classes and then I applied to graduate school. My love for learning and education came from my parents who installed in my brother and three sisters the value of education despite the fact that they went to school for only a few years. I worked at Baylor College of Medicine for 10 years before I joined the University of Houston as a Professor in 1997. At the University of Houston, I have achieved the highest level of a professorship (only 3% of Hispanic women achieve this level). I have focused my research on studying familial, cultural, and socio-environmental factors contributing to childhood obesity among Hispanic and African American youth. I also devoted my time in developing community-based obesity prevention and treatment programs. Overall, I am committed to making a difference in the health of the Hispanic community in Houston as a current President of the Hispanic Health Coalition,
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being an attractive woman (not so much now), being Hispanic, and having an accent. In many ways having integrity and questioning the status quo has been a struggle along the way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a Hispanic Health Coalition President, I launched several health initiatives such as the Latino Health Summit which brings together experts on Hispanic Health issues to discuss these issues and offer innovative solutions to address the health of the Hispanic population in Houston.. The Hispanic Health Coalition also has established a scholarship program and holds an annual health fitness fair in the Eastend neighborhood of Houston.
I am most proud of the difference we made between the Hispanic youth and their parents in eating healthy and being active. As a college professor, I am most proud when students tell what I wonderful role model I am for them, When I inspire students in seeing possibilities they could not see before.
Any big plans?
Increased funding for the Hispanic Health Coalition scholarship program and Latino Health Summit, and Fitness health fair. Increased Women of Color representation in leadership positions at UH.
Write an inspirational children’s book.
Contact Info:
- Website: hispanic-health.org
