By TISA MASON
FHSU President
In 2014, a young woman from the heart of Topeka, Kansas, named Morgan Jibowu embarked on a remarkable journey that would lead her not only to academic excellence but also to making a profound difference in the world of public health. Her trajectory, beginning at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) and flourishing at the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, is a testament to her resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to improving health outcomes in underserved communities.
Morgan discovered Fort Hays State University through the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS), an enriching early college program that provided her with opportunities not readily available elsewhere. The warmth and support of the FHSU community, combined with generous scholarships, solidified her decision to remain at the institution after she completed high school and the KAMS program.
“The incredible professors who made learning personal and inspiring were a significant part of my journey,” Morgan recalls. “FHSU allowed me to grow intellectually, personally, and professionally, and it felt like home.”
Her experiences at KAMS would lay a strong foundation, leading her to pursue research that not only developed her technical skills but also sparked a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. “The early science fairs and research projects ignited my curiosity, pushing me to ask hard questions and seek meaningful answers. I found immense joy in building new knowledge,” she expresses. Her passion for research during her time at FHSU built the groundwork for her current endeavors in epidemiology.
Now a postdoctoral associate, Morgan focuses on vector-borne (primarily insect-transmitted) and neglected tropical diseases, striving to enhance health outcomes for marginalized communities. “I am particularly driven by the importance of translating scientific research into tangible, real-world solutions,” she shares. Her determination to bridge gaps in healthcare reflects a deep commitment to policy reform, aiming to enhance access to quality care for those who need it most.
In May, Morgan returned to her roots at KAMS, where she delivered the commencement address for the Class of 2025. Her speech resonated with wisdom drawn from her experiences. “I emphasized the importance of expanding our definition of success,” she reflected. “Success isn’t just about accolades; it’s also about resilience, nurturing your well-being, and showing up for others.” Morgan’s perspective reminds us that while we strive for ambition, the journey is equally important, filled with moments of connection and personal growth.
She also imparted crucial lessons on embracing rejection as a pathway to growth: “If you’re never hearing ‘no,’ you’re probably not aiming high enough. Each rejection proves that you’re challenging yourself, and that's where real transformation occurs.” This mindset has propelled Morgan forward, inspiring her to tackle the immense challenges present in public health today.
As an epidemiologist, Morgan recognizes the vital connection between research and implementation. “One of the biggest challenges we face is ensuring that research findings translate into effective policy changes and intervention strategies,” she states. Her work encompasses sophisticated investigations, including studying mosquito populations in Harris County, Texas, and understanding the disruptions of environmental factors, such as climate change and urbanization, on disease outbreaks. Her findings are crucial in developing strategies that can prevent vector-borne diseases and promote public health.
Morgan's journey from her formative years in Topeka to her impactful career in public health serves as a beacon of hope for future generations. She encourages aspiring epidemiologists to remain focused on the core mission of enhancing health outcomes. “Ask yourself: How does my work improve public health, especially for underserved populations?” she advises.
There is so much to admire about Morgan. Her accomplishments are truly remarkable. Equally important are the values she embodies; values we hold dear as a university community — resilience, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her commitment to service and desire to create meaningful change exemplify what it means to lead a life of purpose. Morgan Jibowu does not just aim to build a career; she strives to construct a legacy that impacts the lives of others, nurturing the spirit of compassion within the field of public health.
With gratitude for the mentors, friends, and experiences that have shaped her path, Morgan looks forward to the next generation of Tigers at FHSU and KAMS. She is a living testament to the profound impact that a supportive community can have on an individual's journey, and her story is an inspiration to all who dare to dream.