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 collaborates with community organizations, health systems, and public agencies to advance age-friendly initiatives and promote cross-sector partnerships that address social and structural factors affecting older adults. Her research emphasizes practical solutions that translate data into meaningful impact for communities in Hawaiʻi and beyond.

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 as a structural determinant of health in aging populations
• Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), including caregiver well-being and access to supportive services
• Age-friendly communities and health systems as strategies to reduce health disparities among older adults