Degrees

• Ph.D. in Public Health, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
• M.A. in Gerontology, San Francisco State University

Bio

Dr. Lee is an Assistant Researcher at the Center on Aging at the University of Hawaiʻi, where she previously earned her Ph.D. in Public Health. Her academic and professional expertise spans gerontology, psychology, public health, program evaluation, and data analysis, with a particular focus on programs that support the well-being of older adults. Dr. Lee has played a pivotal role in large-scale public health initiatives aimed at improving the lives of older adults in Hawaiʻi. Her work emphasizes food security, age-friendly communities, community partnerships, and the development of workforce programs in aging and public health.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Dr. Lee maintains a strong interest in personal wellness and global engagement; she enjoys weight training, running, yoga, traveling—both within the United States and internationally—and engaging in meaningful conversations with people from diverse backgrounds.

Research Interests

• Food and nutrition insecurity among older adults, with a focus on underserved and rural communities
• Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), including caregiver well-being and access to supportive services
• Workforce development in aging and public health to improve the quality of care for older adults
• Age-friendly communities and age-friendly health systems
• Community-engaged research and cross-sector partnerships to advance health equity among aging populations