MPHA Member Spotlight: Reegan Hebert

August 14, 2025

How long have you been an MPHA Member and what do you find most valuable about your MPHA membership?

This time, two years. In my prior Public Health Role, I had been an MPHA member for many, many years. Staying up to date in public health advocacy efforts.  I also really enjoy the MPHA Annual Conference and opportunity to network with other public and community health professionals doing such impactful work across our state.  These relationships and opportunities to learn from each other is so valuable to me. 

Tell me a little about your current role? 

Currently, I’m focused on tobacco prevention and supporting teen treatment efforts in York County. I’m part of a three-person tobacco prevention team alongside Chelsea Farrington and Alissa Wigglesworth. Together, we’ve strategically divided the county by region, allowing each of us to build deeper connections within the communities we serve. Our work centers around partnering with local towns and cities to prevent the initiation of tobacco and vape use, reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, and connect individuals—especially youth—with treatment resources and support services.

Tell me a little bit about your path to public health? 

With nearly 12 years of experience in the public health field, I’ve had the privilege of coordinating and leading tobacco prevention and childhood obesity prevention efforts across the state of Maine—from Fort Kent to Kittery. A few years ago, I stepped away from public health to explore an opportunity in the senior living industry. That experience further reinforced the importance of prevention and community health for me—both professionally and personally. Fortunately, I found my way back to this meaningful work through the Maine Prevention Network and Betsy’s team here at Partners for Healthier Communities at MaineHealth. I’m so grateful to be back doing what I love—supporting prevention efforts in the very communities where I live, learn, work, and play.

Who or what inspires you in your work? 

I have a sixteen-year-old son who inspires almost everything I do. The desire to show up as the best version of myself—for him, for my family, for my community, and for those I surround myself with—drives me to give my full effort in all areas of my life. I’ve learned that in order to care for others, I first need to care for myself. That self-awareness helps guide my choices and keep me grounded. I also deeply understand the power of role modeling, especially as a parent and public health professional. That’s why I strive not just to promote public health—but to actively practice it in my everyday life.

Is there anything else you would like to share? 

"Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far-reaching effects." – Dalai Lama. I share this quote because I truly believe that each of us has the power to be that single pebble—every single day. Our actions, no matter how small, create ripples that can have a profound impact—not only on our own lives, but on the world around us. It's worth taking a moment each day to reflect on the kind of ripples we're creating. Are they positive, intentional, and aligned with the change we wish to see? When we act with awareness and purpose, our collective power becomes undeniable—one small action at a time.