The STAR Program is proud to recognize three longtime colleagues whose recent academic achievements reflect personal dedication and STAR’s commitment to developing public health leaders: Marian Searchwell-DeSouza, EdD; Susan Holman, DrPH, RN, MS; and Christopher Jimenez, DrPH, LMHC. Their achievements strengthen the STAR Program and the communities we serve, and we are proud to celebrate them. 

Marian Searchwell-DeSouza, Program Coordinator of the Adolescent Education Program (AEP/THEO), earned a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership and Strategic Planning from Grand Canyon University. 

For more than two decades, Marian has empowered young people across Brooklyn through culturally grounded, peer-driven health education. Her leadership has shaped THEO into a model that fosters informed decision-making, resilience, and community strength. 

Susan Holman, HIV Projects Director for the STAR Program, earned her Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from SUNY Downstate School of Public Health. 

A nurse, public health practitioner, and researcher, Susan advances high-quality HIV care and prevention, particularly for people aging with HIV. Her work bridges research and practice to strengthen patient-centered, equity-driven care across STAR. 

Christopher Jimenez, Assistant Director of Substance Use Treatment Services at the STAR Health Center, earned his Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from SUNY Downstate’s School of Public Health. His dissertation reflects expertise in environmental and occupational health. At STAR, he leads multiple SAMHSA- and DOHMH-funded programs focused on integrated, data-driven behavioral health care.