Wanda E. Garcia

Director, Community Engagement
Trauma-Free NYC, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University

Wanda Garcia, MPH, LMSW, is a dedicated professional with a passion for fostering meaningful connections and repairing relationships. Born in the Dominican Republic, Wanda's journey led her to New York in the 1970s, where she embarked on a remarkable path of education and service. Wanda's early life experiences in the Dominican Republic laid the foundation for her empathetic nature and cross-cultural awareness. After growing up in Inwood/Washington Heights, she pursued her academic aspirations with determination. Wanda earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Barnard College, demonstrating her commitment to the sciences.

Driven by a desire to understand the complexities of human behavior, Wanda delved into neuropsychology studies at Howard University. Her educational journey then led her to Columbia University, where she obtained both a Master of Public Health (MPH) and a Master of Social Work (MSW). These dual degrees equipped her with a unique perspective that integrates psychological, sociological and systemic insights. Wanda’s career has spanned research on HIV, epilepsy, parent-child connections, child development, Alzheimer’s and in the last 14 years she has been part of the team, at Mailman’s Population and Family Health Department, where she has been working with a cohort of BIPOC families who have helped us understand the impacts of prenatal pesticide exposures. Currently, she is the Director of Community Engagement for Trauma-Free NYC and is leading efforts to train public health students, CBO’s and other institutions on Trauma-Informed Care. 

In addition, Wanda's training at the Ackerman Family Institute in family therapy and couples therapy showcases her dedication to expanding her skills. Her professional portfolio reflects her commitment to helping people mend and strengthen their relationships.

Wanda Garcia possesses a deep understanding of the intricate connections between the human body, family dynamics, relationships and the social determinants of health. Her empathy, coupled with her comprehensive academic background, enables her to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment for her clients, the public health students and the community organizations she supports.