Keleigh Waldner, M.A., brings a blend of communication and research skills to her role as Senior Manager of Communications and Research at the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts. She develops and implements communication strategies across multiple platforms to engage diverse audiences. As a data-driven communicator, she tailors strategies based on performance and continuous learning to ensure impactful messaging. Keleigh thrives in collaborative environments, fostering teamwork to merge diverse perspectives and create impactful communication materials. She enjoys thinking about ways to visualize data and translate complex findings into accessible and actionable forms.  

In addition to her communications responsibilities, Keleigh works with the research and evaluation team. Some of her work has included coordinating the R.O.A.D.S. study, a mixed-methods study aimed at understanding how changes to the built environment impact community health, and supporting the administration of population-based youth health surveys in Springfield, MA. She has engaged in countless other projects since she began working with PHIWM in 2014. 

Social justice has always been central to Keleigh’s work. Earlier in her career she worked in the housing and community development sector. Keleigh holds a Master's degree in Community Development and Planning, as well as a Bachelor's degree in International Development and Social Change from Clark University. Driven by curiosity, Keleigh actively seeks out new knowledge and skills to enhance her work and understanding of the world. Fun Fact: Keleigh will travel far and wide for vegan food. 

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