About

About Me

Dr. Ernesto Moralez is an esteemed Assistant Professor of Public Health, a Certified Health Education Specialist, and an accomplished researcher dedicated to public health education. Born and raised in New Mexico, Moralez's tenacity and commitment to learning have led him to remarkable heights in the public health sector.

Background and Education

Ernesto Moralez's journey starts in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as the proud son of a Mexican immigrant mother who settled in El Paso, Texas. His father, who grew up in the Mesilla Valley farmland, graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in Social Work. These deep roots and diverse backgrounds have significantly shaped Moralez's professional motives and personal virtues.

Moralez's educational journey is a testament to his virtue of lifelong learning. He began his higher education at Albuquerque Technical Institute, now Central New Mexico Community College, before moving to New York City to attend Hunter College, intending to study Sociology. His curiosity led him to an "Introduction to Epidemiology" class at New Mexico State University, which sparked his interest in public health, culminating in a Bachelor's in Human and Community Services in 2007.

Demonstrating his dedication to public health, Moralez transitioned smoothly into NMSU's graduate program, earning his Master's in Public Health in 2009. His perseverance in education saw him become a summer intern at the Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center, where his work contributed to his graduate thesis. In 2015, Moralez completed his Ph.D. in Health and Behavioral Science from the University of Colorado-Denver, a significant milestone forged from resolve and hard work.

Career History and Achievements

Moralez's steadfast dedication to advancing public health education led him to serve as a faculty member at prominent institutions, including New Mexico State University, the University of Colorado-Denver, St. Lawrence University, and the Metropolitan State University of Denver.

In recognition of his devotion to teaching, Moralez has received numerous awards. In 2021, he received the St. Lawrence University Owen D. Young Faculty Award for his dedication to student growth. The New Mexico State University Donald C. Roush Award for Teaching Excellence and the Patricia Christmore Faculty Teaching Award were bestowed upon him in 2018 and 2017, respectively. These awards reflect Moralez's allegiance to his profession and ongoing education for the betterment of his students.

Beyond his academic duties, Moralez brought an innovative health equity curriculum to fruition for family practice medical residents. As part of an interdisciplinary team, they developed specific competencies to address health equity, enabling residents to understand and meet their patients' medical and social needs. This initiative is a step towards bridging the gap in health disparities, showcasing Moralez's dedication to his field.

Charitable Activities

Complementing his professional career, Moralez is deeply dedicated to serving others through his significant involvement in charitable activities. He actively serves in his church and delivers meals for the Meals on Wheels program. This devotion to serving those in need aligns with his professional desire to advance public health and promote equitable healthcare access for all.

Ernesto Moralez embodies the virtues of perpetual growth and dedication in every aspect of his life. His zeal for learning has guided his academic journey and influenced his career trajectory, leading him to uncover new avenues in public health. His steadfast devotion to teaching, research, and service — within and beyond academia — exhibits his dedication to making a difference in people's lives. Dr. Ernesto Moralez inspires others throughout his life, presenting a passion, dedication, and lifelong improvement model.