Dr. Aileen Dinkjian's biography

Dr. Aileen Dinkjian has 25 years of experience working in multiple sectors (e.g., governments, private organizations, education, health care etc.) bringing forth unique skills and resources for specific healthcare initiatives. Dr. Dinkjian currently manages and collaborates on high-profile strategic projects serving both internal and external stakeholders in a dynamic matter, and has successfully identified viable opportunities to create and implement strategic plans to drive the long-term vision of an organization. Dr. Dinkjian also co-leads the San Antonio Regional Hospital Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Council which includes diverse perspectives from a sub- Community Advisory Council. As the Executive Director of the Lewis-San Antonio Healthy Communities Institute, Dr. Dinkjian helps create innovating, inclusive solutions by co-creating structures, programs, and specific training centered around addressing health equity and health disparities. Part of her program includes addressing the shortage of health care workers and elements of the educational gap through a “Wellness Starts with You” program bridging healthcare and wellness directed at middle and high school students. Under her leadership, the institute provides community practicum experience for undergrad and graduate students and community partnerships to support community health improvement and in leading the Community Health Needs Assessment. Dr. Dinkjian has also supported the launching of a new College of Health and Community Well-Being at the University of La Verne to help meet the critical and ongoing demands for diverse, qualified healthcare professionals, brought into sharp focus by the tragedies of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Dinkjian has a deep passion for disease prevention and community health and as a regional leader, Dr. Dinkjian has led national models for high quality education that is innovative in the 21st century health and community well-being. A specific program included an NIH-funded program to diversify scientific grant reviews by involving community members in the grant review committee process. The programs she currently leads offer career preparation and research opportunities that emphasizes the need to address health inequities and social determinants of health. Dr. Dinkjian received her B.A. in Political Science at Cal Poly Pomona, an MPH at George Washington University and a doctorate in education at the University of Southern California.