Cristalyn joined The Center in 2026 as a program specialist with the Delta Region Community Health Systems Development (DRCHSD) program as part of the consultation team. In her role, she works closely alongside rural clinics as they work with the DRCHSD program.
Her extensive background in public health, client support and research has been the foundation of her passion for supporting rural communities. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northwestern State University of Louisiana and a master’s degree in counseling and guidance from Louisiana Tech University. Throughout her career, Cristalyn has held roles focused on community-based research, helping community members navigate health-related services, patient recruitment, data collection, and health coaching, particularly working with underserved populations. She is most proud of her past research projects focused on improving health outcomes and access in rural communities, several of which resulted in peer-reviewed publications.
Cristalyn’s interest in rural health was sparked by her interest in psychology and counseling and understanding people’s needs, as well as with prior experience in public health and clinical research. This demonstrated to her how programs, policies, and community resources can directly affect health outcomes. With a passion for work that supports others, she knew that program-focused work in health care was the right field for her. Her connection to rural runs even deeper through her home in Shreveport, Louisiana, where she regularly encounters individuals who face health care challenges such as lack of transportation and limited specialists. These experiences continue to shape her commitment to supporting communities and improving access to care.
Outside of work, Cristalyn enjoys travel, spending time with friends and family, and taking her pups on a nice long walk. She can also be found crafting and making recipes from her travels.