How Destany Michael Champions Local Healthcare

Now in medical school at Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine (TUCOM) she is more than a future physician—she’s a mentor, an advocate, a role model, and a proud member of Vallejo, determined to uplift her community.

What drew you to Public Health?

My initial interest in public health was sparked by a passion for community-based health efforts, especially focusing on birth justice and maternal health. I completed my MPH in 2023 and started medical school in the fall of 2024.

I see myself as a community member, a public health advocate, and a future physician. Several pre-med internships exposed me to public health. It is essential for clinicians to grasp public health concepts to provide the best care for their patients. My background has given me a deeper understanding of how these two fields intersect.

I believe that healthcare providers need to approach medicine through a public health lens to truly understand and serve people whose lives may be different from their own. Combining my interests in history, anthropology, and medicine has equipped me to contribute meaningfully to Vallejo.

Do you see yourself as a role model?

Representation is incredibly important to me, especially in medicine. Being able to attend medical school is a privilege.  I am proud to be the first in my family to attend college.

I recognize that the opportunity to be a role model for others and to create spaces where students from my community can achieve their goals is important. There is a small percentage of students from my community who are at TUC and pursuing advanced degrees in medicine. I believe it is important to support students who are interested in the medical field. I hope to give back by supporting students who aspire to pursue careers in healthcare.

One example of this is through my role as a mentor in the Health Careers Opportunities Program (HCOP) at TUC. This program exposes college and high school students to the medical field, and I’m passionate about helping guide them in their journey toward a healthcare career.

Why is it important to celebrate Vallejo’s rich history?

It is essential that our current generation see what has been accomplished in the past. Vallejo has a rich and significant history. Many leaders in my community have been instrumental in shaping the success of our city.

Vallejo has so much to offer in terms of history, traditions, values, and resilience. It is important that we recognize and celebrate this rich legacy. It is time to inspire future generations to continue contributing to the success of our community.

Who inspires you?

I’ve been deeply inspired by physicians from my community whom I’ve met along my journey. Their dedication to their work and their commitment to giving back to the community have motivated me to pursue my own goals and serve others.

My grandmother has also been a role model for me. She taught me the importance of serving the community and staying connected to my roots. Her example has been a guiding force in my life.

Lastly, my son is a major inspiration in my journey.  He reminds me every day of the importance of perseverance and the legacy I want to build for the future.

Is there anything else that you would like to share?

Being a student at TUC has allowed me to see my hometown in a new light. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of community policy, the ways in which TUC can support the community, and the impactful work being done in Vallejo. I feel incredibly grateful and privileged to be in this position. I am committed to using my education and experience to give back to the community that has shaped me. During my time at TUC, I hope to continue establishing partnerships that will strengthen and support our Vallejo community, creating lasting positive change.