On Oct. 28, 2025, Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica, causing widespread damage, evacuations and flooding. In the days following a hurricane, rising floodwaters and displaced wildlife can turn entire communities into public health risk zones. Kelli Ann Turner, ’25, a Jamaica-based public health inspector and Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) graduate, immediately went to work keeping her community safe from Hurricane Melissa’s aftermath.

“EKU Colonels around the world share a deep commitment to selflessly serving their communities and helping others,” said David McFaddin, president of Eastern Kentucky University. “While we missed the opportunity to celebrate Kelli Ann at our December commencement because she was serving her community in the wake of the hurricane, we couldn’t be more proud of her and the example she represents.”

For more than a decade, Turner has dedicated her career to preventing public health risks from becoming crises. After hurricanes in Jamaica, she addresses increased concerns about leptospirosis by educating communities on sanitation and environmental safety.

Beyond natural disasters, Turner monitors food establishments, schools, churches and public gathering spaces, ensuring compliance with safety and sanitation standards. Her day-to-day responsibilities include inspecting carcasses from the slaughterhouse before meat gets to food handling establishments, testing water quality and controlling disease-carrying rodents and mosquitoes. These efforts help protect communities from outbreaks and environmental health risks. 

Even with her extensive experience, she wanted to expand her knowledge, which led her to EKU to earn a master’s in safety, security and emergency management. After researching several universities, she found EKU’s program aligned with her professional experience and career goals. 

“The coursework was so broad, and I could immediately relate what I was learning to what I do every day,” she said. Each lesson challenged her and deepened her understanding of preventative health, policy and environmental protection.

EKU’s online format allowed Turner to balance work, family and school on her own schedule. 

“It was extremely flexible,” she said. “I could still work full time and be present for my girls.” She also credits EKU faculty for providing a supportive learning environment.

Turner completed her master’s program in the fall but was unable to travel to Kentucky for graduation due to her commitment to public health response efforts after Hurricane Melissa.

Now equipped with advanced training in safety, security and emergency management, Turner continues to serve on the front lines of preventative health with a focus on water quality, food safety and education that helps communities prevent illness and save lives.  

EKU is ranked among the top 10 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management Degree Programs by Online Master’s Colleges. The Master of Science in Safety, Security and Emergency Management at EKU prepares graduates to lead emergency response efforts and support communities worldwide.