Office of Faculty

Kate Smith, Professor in Health, Behavior and Society and Vice Dean for Faculty at the Bloomberg School, is a sociologist specializing in the social determinants of health and qualitative research methods as applied to public health inquiries. Her expertise encompasses communication of health information, lived experiences of health conditions, and the interplay between identity and health.

In her role as Vice Dean for Faculty, Kate serves as a voice for faculty in leadership decision making, acting as a liaison between the University and School on faculty policies and initiatives. She oversees all faculty appointments and promotion requests at both the School and University levels, organizes initiatives to promote faculty success, and serves as a valuable resource for all Bloomberg School faculty members.

Isis Conroy-Tabrizi is a senior associate in Faculty Appointments and Promotions at the Bloomberg School. She has led significant projects, including managing the Faculty Information System (FIS) and cultivating a robust tracking system for appointments and promotions. She has also taken on leadership roles, serving as the inaugural IDARE Staff Assembly representative and participating in the Administrative Development Program. Passionate about recognizing individuals' contributions to public health, Isis is dedicated to making systems more equitable and efficient.

Outside of the office, Isis is an advocate for organic farming and often sells mushrooms at farmers markets. Living in Baltimore city with her wife and two dogs, Isis enjoys spending time outdoors and visiting local Charm City spots! 

Katrina "Kate" Rhoda brings a wealth of diverse experience and a vibrant energy to her role as a senior faculty appointments and promotions coordinator at the School. With nine years of experience in the mortgage industry, Kate embarked on a mission to challenge herself in a new field, ultimately finding a rewarding role in academic administration.

Driven by the opportunity to facilitate the vital work of faculty members, Kate finds fulfillment in witnessing their accomplishments and ensuring they have the support they need to thrive. She brings crucial skills of organization, collaboration, and effective communication to the team. 

Beyond her professional endeavors, Kate finds joy in spending time outdoors with her dog, cooking vegan and vegetarian dishes, and cherishing moments with her son.

Denise is excited to join the Office of Faculty after 8 years in External Affairs and will manage Faculty Senate along with other Vice Dean of Faculty priorities. With a background in logistics, protocol, production, and design, she has been a leader in academic, non-profit, and community events and meetings for over 30 years. 

She grew up in Los Angeles and worked as a roller coaster operator, a non-response follow-up enumerator for the US Census Bureau, and photographer before earning a degree in Landscape Architecture, and directing events at UCLA Anderson and USC. Denise and her spouse moved to Baltimore in 2008 when her spouse joined the faculty in the Department of Neuroscience. Prior to joining the Office of Faculty, Denise managed Special Events for the Office of External Affairs for 8 years directing the school’s signature and VIP events, Health Advisory Board meetings and travel, and Convocation.

When not in the office you may find Denise and her partner traveling, scuba diving, gardening, spending time with their dogs, working on her photography skills, or planning the next adventure.