Board Member Spotlight: David Buys

In this year's spotlight on public health professionals who contribute to the success of the National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE), David Buys, Phd, MSPH, CPH is another who stands out. His journey from item writer to board member exemplifies his unwavering commitment to the professionalization and advancement of public health.

David Buys: Championing the Future of Public Health with Passion and Commitment

David’s path with NBPHE began with the Certification in Public Health (CPH) credential. Initially, his degree in sociology immersed him in discussions about the differences between occupations and professions, and the professionalization of various work aspects. This academic foundation underscored for him the significance of credentialing and its impact across fields.

As a postdoc, David had the opportunity to earn his Master’s degree in Public Health, which he paired with a CPH credential. Reflecting on this period, he said, “In my first full-time job, I realized that having both an MPH and a CPH could serve me well and allow me to give back to the field. The more people who get the credential, the more recognition it garners. High-performing public health practitioners, scholars, and leaders seeking their credential perpetuate the elevated standards of the CPH.”

David’s involvement with NBPHE started as an item writer, but his dedication and expertise soon led to additional committee work, and then eventually to a board position. Having served on the board for some time, he is consistently amazed by the level of commitment and passion from everyone associated with NBPHE. From the exceptional staff, to a new volunteer, to a long-serving board member, the dedication to advancing the field is palpable.

Looking ahead, David sees NBPHE at a pivotal moment. “With the Certification in Public Health firmly established, the board is now focused on increasing awareness, interest, and engagement with this essential credential. Moreover, we are exploring the expansion of credentials offered by NBPHE. These are crucial steps in our quest to significantly contribute to the professionalization of the public health field,” he said.

However, not everyone in the public health community sees eye to eye on the importance of professionalization. David recalls a former professor questioning the need for the CPH credential, a sentiment he understands but respectfully disagrees with. “The exam isn’t about legal protection but about recognizing and advancing public health competencies. The process demands substantial thought, time, and effort, ensuring that the exam assesses and perpetuates competencies across the public health spectrum. This rigorous commitment ensures that the CPH remains a meaningful and respected credential,” he explained.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are also key pillars in the development of the CPH certification. David emphasizes the need for representation across various dimensions, including race, gender, and educational status, to keep the exam accessible and relevant to everyone in the public health field. He envisions a public health workforce with better pay scales, more training opportunities, and clearer competencies for entry-level professionals. These elements, coupled with certification, can help advocate for higher pay and attract dedicated professionals to the field. NBPHE plays a crucial role in developing and certifying these competencies.

Working in a state with significant public health disparities presents its own set of challenges. “I grew up in a Mississippi community and family in which I was among the 8th generation of folks to inhabit that area, with our first family having arrived there in 1820, shared David. “At a pretty early age, I realized what a unique gift that was. Given that understanding, I developed a laser focus on improving the well-being of my fellow Mississippians, starting with my own family. That’s where my passion lies and what gets me going each morning. I am so grateful that I found my way to public health and this board as one means to accomplish that goal.”

Despite opportunities to leave Mississippi, David and his spouse chose to stay, driven by their commitment to making a difference. Celebrating small wins and continually reframing their “why” has been vital in maintaining their dedication and resilience.

Together they share a deep, personal commitment to public health. “My wife and I met on the dance floor at Morgan Freeman’s blues club in the Mississippi Delta. She was dancing with Mr. Freeman, and I was there with my friends for a New Year's Eve party in 2006. Over the next several months, we reconnected and married the following New Year's Eve,” David began. He added, “The day after we got back from our honeymoon, we both started graduate programs. By the end, we both had master’s degrees in public health—hers in health behavior and mine in epidemiology. She now works clinically as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I’m an administrator and community health practitioner. While our paths are different, our public health background gives us a common language to discuss our work.”

David Buys exemplifies dedication, passion, and a profound commitment to public health. Often described as a connector, someone with a knack for spotting opportunities for synergy, his background in sociology and public health bolsters his systems-thinking approach, making him a valuable asset to NBPHE and the broader public health community.