Advancing Public Health
My commitment to advancing public health is driven by a dedication to improve community well-being through evidence-based interventions, innovative research, and educating the next generation. I work with amazing collaborators to tackle today's most pressing health challenges to foster a healthier future for all.
Research Areas
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Palliative Care & Caregiving
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Determinants of Health
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Quality in Health Care
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Education & Training
About
Dr. M. Courtney Hughes serves as Interim Associate Dean for Research and Administration in the College of Health and Human Sciences at Northern Illinois University, where she is also a Professor of Public Health. A dedicated mentor, she works closely with students from undergraduate through postdoctoral levels. From 2022 - 2025, she was NIU’s NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative, bridging academics and athletics.
Courtney’s lifelong commitment to health began early, shaped by a love of sports and curiosity about how the body thrives. Her path became personal when her father passed away from heart disease at age 47, inspiring her to devote her career to understanding and improving health and well-being. Today, her mission extends beyond individual wellness to advancing population health and quality of life through research, education, and innovative technologies.
Her work appears in leading scientific journals and at national and international conferences. In recognition of her dedication to student mentorship, she received the 2024 Mid-American Conference Outstanding Faculty Award for Student Success. Courtney earned her PhD in Health Services from the University of Washington, her MS in Kinesiology from the University of Michigan, and her BBA in Finance and Business Economics / Computer Applications from the University of Notre Dame, where she was a member of the varsity tennis team.
