Margarita Alegria

Professor of Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry, HMS
Director, Center for Multicultural Mental Health Research, Cambridge Health Alliance
Margarita Alegria holds photo of a group of people.

What inspires or motivates you in your role at HMS/HSDM?
The passion, creativity and resilience of many of Harvard's students. They are not only incredibly bright, but see the world though a different lens, helping me to learn so much!

In what ways do you feel you contribute to the Harvard community?
I believe that I contribute by serving as a bridge between the issues that matter to immigrant and minority populations and the Harvard community, particularly topics in the areas of behavioral health and healthcare. There is sometimes a disconnect or misunderstanding surrounding the constraints that are faced by immigrants and communities of color. The opportunity to spread the awareness of some if these critical issues, either in mentoring o a professional practice, is a contribution have made and am happy to continue making.