Meet Our Team

Nichole Allen

Planning and Business Manager

Nichole Allen began working at the Florida Department of Health in 2005 as an OPS records tech with vital statistics. She transferred to the finance and accounting business office shortly thereafter. Nichole supervises the budget office, vital statistics, contract administration, and revenue management.

She is a member of the Florida Association of County Health Department Business Administrators. In her free time, Nichole enjoys gardening, creating new recipes, and cooking for her friends and family.

Jennifer Greenwell

Budget Analyst, Administrative Services

Jennifer joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in December of 2016 as administrative assistant before progressing into the role of budget analyst.

Prior to working at DOH-Monroe she held a variety of client service based roles such as dental assisting and patient treatment coordination (10 years), special needs transportation assistant, Blue Cross Blue Shield customer service, and as a pharmacy technician.

She is currently pursuing an Associate Degree in Business Administration.

In her free time, Jennifer enjoys painting, reading, traveling and watching her three grandsons grow.

Yevette Veliz

Budget Analyst

Yevette joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 1993, when it was HRS and located on Stock Island in the old Monroe General building.  After taking eight years off to stay home with her children she returned to DOH-Monroe in the Gato Building.

Her entire DOH-Monroe career has been spent working in the business office.  In her early years she provided back up support to Vital Statistics.  Prior to her current role as Budget Analyst she worked in Fiscal Assistant and Operations Analyst roles.

Yevette received her Associate of Art degree at the College of the Florida Keys. Prior to joining DOH-Monroe she worked in a variety of retail positions.

Yevette’s family is everything to her and she is very involved with her two grandsons.  In her spare time she enjoys reading, diamond art and relaxing at the beach.

Taweh Beysolow, MD

Medical Director

Dr. Beysolow joined DOH-Monroe in November 2024. He is responsible for medical oversight of all DOH-Monroe locations with direct client care one day per week, working closely with the DOH-Monroe APRN providers and registered nurses. Dr. Beysolow has worked with local health departments, including Palm Beach, Dade, and Monroe counties since the 1980s. He is trained in infectious and tropical disease. 

Dr. Beysolow graduated from Dartmouth Medical School in New Hampshire.

He completed his residency in internal medicine at both the University of Massachusetts and Harlem Hospital Center in New York. After completing his residency, he completed a nephrology fellowship at Harlem Hospital. Dr. Beysolow then remained at Harlem Hospital for the next three years to pursue a fellowship in nephrology.

He is currently a member of the American Society of Nephrology, Florida Society of Nephrology, National Kidney Foundation, International Society of Nephrology, American College of Physicians, and Florida Medical Association.

Dr. Beysolow is an avid gardner and also loves to jog, power walk, and ride his bicycle from Key West to Baby’s Coffee on the weekends.

Mark Roby, DNP, MBA, RN

Director of Nursing

Dr. Roby has been the director of nursing at the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County since January, 2023.

He started his nursing career over 25 years ago as a cardiac telemetry nurse after graduating with a bachelor of science in nursing from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.

In addition to this BSN degree, Dr. Roby holds a bachelor of science degree in psychology from Virginia Tech, an MBA in human resource management from the University of Phoenix, an MSN in nursing education from the University of South Florida, and a doctorate of nursing practice from Capella University. Dr. Roby enjoys paddleboarding and biking, and is a huge sci-fi fan.

Kathy O’Connell, ARNP

Provider

Kathy moved to Key West in 1982, on a one-way ticket, and started her island life working on boats, scuba diving, fishing, and working at restaurants. She had many adventures and lots of traveling but realized she needed a “real” job and signed up for nursing school at Florida Keys Community College.

She graduated with her associates degree in science in 1995. Upon graduation she started working at Lower Keys Medical Center on the medical and surgical unit, and after two years transferred to the emergency department until 2014.

Kathy received her BSN at Grand Canyon University and her MSN at Florida International University, graduating in August of 2015. She has been working as a nurse practitioner in the urgent care setting ever since.

She started working at the Department of Health in Monroe County in 2022, and enjoys working with the refugee health clients. In her free time she continues to go fishing any chance she gets and she also enjoys snow skiing and most outdoor activities. 

Alyssa Suggs, MSN, RN, APRN, FNP-BC

Provider

Alyssa Suggs has been with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County since November 2019.

She started her nursing career 10 years ago after completing a bachelor of science in nursing from Nova Southeastern University. After graduation she began working as a registered nurse at a local hospital prior to transferring to Lower Keys Medical Center in 2015.

While working full time in the emergency department as a RN she decided to pursue a higher level of education and went back to school to complete a masters degree. In May 2019, she graduated with a master of science in nursing with a family practice focus. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in the specialty of family nurse practitioner.

Alyssa has eight years of combined emergency department experience as a RN and APRN. At the Florida Department of Health, Alyssa provides care to clients within the Family Planning and Refugee Health programs.  

When she is not at work, she enjoys being outside playing with her 2 dogs or traveling with her husband. 

Nadine Balbi, MSN, BSN, RN

Registered Nurse Supervisor

Nadine was born and raised in Key West and she joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in January 2022. She graduated from the College of the Florida Keys with her bachelor of science in nursing and is currently pursuing her MSN.

Prior to working at DOH-Monroe, Nadine worked in pediatrics for several years. Her focus at the health department relies heavily on pediatric health and wellness.

With a heavy focus on community outreach, Nadine strives to be in our community on a monthly basis providing services. She enjoys spending her free time with her energetic two-year-old daughter, being outdoors, and traveling.    

Jackie Curl, RN

Tuberculosis Program Manager

Jackie joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County as the tuberculosis program manager in November of 2022. Jackie has spent most of her nursing career working in assisted living and home care services. She has also worked in school health and nurse management roles.

Throughout her career she has worked in communities, and she enjoys bringing health care and health information to people who are isolated and disadvantaged. This love of working with people in and around their homes is well suited for her current role, which primary focus is the refugee population.

Jackie holds her captains license and enjoys spending time on the water as much as she can. She has a large family whom she cherishes above all else.

Dana Portillo, RNC, BA

School Health Coordinator and School Based Dental Sealant Program Manager

Dana Portillo brings 24 years of nursing experience to this role. Her vast experience includes areas of acute and long-term care, school nursing, and she now oversees 11 school clinics in the county.

Dana monitors and assists with clinic activity, school health screenings, immunizations, and dental site data. She facilitates outreach in the schools and community for students and adults to provide required and recommended immunizations. She oversees the school based dental sealant program.

Dana participates in several committees and works closely with the Monroe County School District and DOH-Monroe’s medical director to create and update policies, coordinate with other community partners, and case manage needs of students within the schools.

She holds a bachelors in psychology from Georgetown College and an ASN from Troy State University in Montgomery, Alabama. She arrived in our island chain in 1999 after her husband’s transfer to Key West. She is married with one grown son and enjoys spending precious time with family, DIY, photography, crafts, and cooking. 

Brittney Waite, BSN, RN

Family Planning Manager, Nursing Program Specialist

Brittney was born and raised in Key West. She started her career in health care in 2010 as a certified nurse assistant and eventually went on to become a registered nurse in 2018.

She has worked with expecting mothers at Lower Keys Medical Center where she cared for and assisted many women in bringing their new babies into the world. While starting a family of her own she worked on her obtaining her bachelor’s degree that she completed in November 2022.

Brittney recently joined the Department of Health in Monroe County this year and is enjoying being able to continue to serve the women and men of our community.

Brittney is very family oriented and in her  free-time enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.  

Natalie Aguilar

Front Desk Operations and Management Consultant

Natalie joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in June of 2020 and currently manages the front desk staff at DOH clinics in Key West, Marathon, and Tavernier.

Prior to working at DOH-Monroe, Natalie worked as provider relations coordinator for KPHA, admissions case manager for Hospice of the Florida Keys, and office manager for George D. Peterson, MD. Natalie has also worked as full charge bookeeper for the Conch Tour Train for Historic Tours of America.

Natalie is proud grandmother to four grandchildren. 

Alison Kerr, MPH

Director of Community Health

Alison has worked for the Department since March 2013, serving in various capacities. Alison supervises community health, tobacco prevention, and vital statistics. She directs the administration of the performance management, strategic plan, and quality improvement plan. She is also responsible for leading staff and activities to achieve and sustain the agency’s accreditation status with the Public Health Accreditation Board.

Alison currently serves on the board of Zonta Club of Key West, a non-profit organization that serves to advance the status of women.

She holds a BS in environmental studies from the University of Southern California and an MPH in Environmental and Occupational Health from FIU. Along with her husband, Manny, Alison enjoys making the Florida Keys her home with their cat, Luna.

Carmel Cox

Chief Deputy Registrar, Vital Statistics

Carmel Cox is the chief deputy registrar in vital statistics for the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County (DOH-Monroe). As an integral part of DOH-Monroe, she ensures accurate and timely record-keeping of vital events, such as births and deaths, and works closely with local, state, and federal agencies on laws and procedures related to vital statistics. She ensures the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information.

Carmel collects, records, indexes, prepares, and maintains vital records for birth, stillbirth, death records, and processes annulments and paternity acknowledgements.

Carmel is also a valuable and active community member. She has dedicated countless hours to various charitable organizations, lending a helping hand to those in need. She currently serves on the board of the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Scholarship Committee. Through this position she has been able to provide educational opportunities to students who may not have the means to pursue higher education otherwise.

Carmel is born and raised in Key West, Florida. In her free time, she enjoys partaking in the many events in Key West with her family.

Gayle A. Glover, B.S., M.Ed., NBCT

Health Educator Consultant, Tobacco Prevention Program

Gayle Glover has been with DOH-Monroe since March 2014. She is a health educator consultant in the Tobacco Prevention Program.

Gayle came to Key West from North Carolina in 2013 after retiring from a 35-year teaching career in health and physical education and coaching. She has held various roles within DOH-Monroe including tobacco prevention, and she wrote and managed a two-year grant from the Health Foundation of South Florida for Multigenerational Parks in Key West and Monroe during 2015-2018. 

Gayle enjoys volunteering at the Tropic Cinema and spending time on the water. Her interests include spending time with her five children and their families and traveling the world.

Ivona Coleman

Community Health Improvement Coordinator

Ivona Coleman joined DOH-Monroe in March 2024 as Community Health Improvement Coordinator. She is responsible for identifying and addressing community health needs through assessments and research, planning and implementing community health initiatives and programs to improve wellness and health of all Monroe County residents.

In her role, Ivona collaborates with local, county, and government agencies including health care providers and social services and non-profit organizations to design and implement health programs that address identified needs and deliver health services.

She also conducts health education and outreach here in the Florida Keys. Her current focus is Access to Care, Substance Abuse and Mental Health, and Community Safety, which includes Bicyclist and Pedestrian Safety, Water Safety/Drowning Prevention and Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention initiatives.

Ivona graduated from Palacky University Olomouc, Faculty of Physical Culture where she completed her Master of Science in Recreation and Leisure Studies and Physical Education and Sports. After completing her degree, she worked as a director of High Rope Course Outdoor Adventure Center in the Czech Republic. She then moved to the Florida Keys and worked for Florida Keys AHEC for 10 years focusing on the Tobacco Free Florida program.

Ivona currently serves on the Sustainability Advisory Board for the City of Key West and Consumer Advisory Board of Behavioral Health branch at the second campus,LKMC- Depoo Medical Building

Bill Brookman

Operations Consultant 

Bill Brookman is a government operations consultant at DOH-Monroe. He currently supports quality improvement initiatives within the Department. Bill has worked in the environmental health programs as a supervisor and program manager from 1999 to 2018. He has participated in research into nutrient-reducing onsite wastewater systems and authored several articles on the subject.

Bill has a bachelor of science degree in environmental sciences from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and a master of public health degree from Florida International University.

Bill speaks English and Haitian Creole. He is a long-time stamp collector and father of four adult sons.  

John Rouge

Human Service Program Analyst

John Rouge joined DOH-Monroe in 2023 as a Human Service Program Analyst. His work for the Department is focused on grant writing and resource development. John has a master’s degree in project management from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota and a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University.

In his spare time, John enjoys gardening.

Brandie Peretz

Program Manager, Environmental Public Health

Brandie has over 15 years of experience working with the Florida Department of Health in various divisions including Environmental Health, Engineering, Radiation Control, Community Health and Epidemiology programs.

Brandie has over two years of experience working as a supervisor with the state of Nevada’s Radiation Control Program. Brandie has a bachelor of science in biology from Spring Hill College.

In her free time Brandie enjoys boating and snorkeling with her family.

Cristina Bernal

Environmental Specialist

Cristina Bernal graduated from high school and after one year in the college of medicine, she discovered her passion in life was the ocean, and pursued her bachelors in marine biology. She then continued her educational pursuits to obtain a masters in  environmental affairs.

In 2003, after working as partner in an environmental consultant agency, Cristina decided to come to the Florida Keys.

Cristina worked as a volunteer for two years at the Dolphin Research Center. She began working for DOH-Monroe in 2011 as an environmental specialist, while simultaneously working on getting all the environmental health professional certifications. 

Cristina runs the Small Quantity Generator Program, along with the Beach Water Program.

Cristina enjoys traveling and has visited about 20 countries.

Juan Bernal

Environmental Specialist

Juan Bernal has been working with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County as a part-time environmental specialist since March 2025.

He holds a BS in Marine Biology and an M.B.A from the University of Phoenix. Juan is also a certified Environmental Health Professional at all levels in the primary area of food protection. He has spent most of his professional life in the aquaculture and aquarium industry and owns and operates a marine life company with his wife Cristina in the Florida Keys.

When he is not performing inspections in the field or traveling up and down the keys for his job as an Environmental Specialist, he is either diving the local reefs or taking care of his marine life holding systems and shipping orders. He enjoys his free time watching movies, fishing and traveling with his wife.

Jennifer Telfer

Environmental Specialist

Jennifer Telfer joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in May 2025 as an environmental specialist. She works to protect the health of our community through inspections and investigations in areas such as public pools, mobile homes, group care, and beach water quality.

Originally from Ohio, she earned her degree in Visual Communications in Buffalo, New York, and has called many places home over the years, giving her a broad perspective and an appreciation for diverse communities. Her background includes creative work as a graphic designer and experience as a paraprofessional supporting young learners.

She lives in the beautiful Florida Keys with her husband, children, and their dog, Muffin. In her free time, she enjoys snorkeling, painting, walking her dog, and spending quality with her family. A fun fact: in the year 2020 she took up beekeeping, developing a passion for these vital pollinators.

Ryan Kaneshiro

Environmental Specialist

Ryan Kaneshiro joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in September 2025 as an environmental specialist. 

With a strong academic foundation in biomedical sciences—holding a Master of Science from Tulane University and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Central Florida—Ryan brings a multidisciplinary approach to environmental health and public safety.

His background includes hands-on research in microbiology and immunology, and leadership in community health initiatives. Ryan has contributed to immunization research, pediatric care, and underserved medical outreach, and has held leadership roles in student organizations focused on medical missions and pre-medical education.

Now focused on environmental protection, Ryan leverages his scientific training and collaborative mindset to support sustainable practices and safeguard public health in the Florida Keys.

When he’s not working, Ryan enjoys fishing in the beautiful waters of the Keys and proudly cheering on the UCF Knights!

Annie Rojas

Environmental Specialist

Annie Rojas joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in September 2025 as an environmental specialist. In her role, she is dedicated to protecting the health and safety of the community by conducting investigations in a variety of areas, including public swimming pools, beach water quality, schools, biomedical waste, mobile homes, and group care facilities.

Born and raised in Key West, Annie has a deep-rooted connection to the local community. She has held multiple roles in the social services field, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to supporting and uplifting others. In December of 2025, she will earn her Master of Social Work from Florida State University, further expanding her ability to serve the public with compassion and expertise.

Outside of work, Annie enjoys spending time with her children and being on the water, a true reflection of her island upbringing and love for coastal life.

Brandie Peretz

Program Manager, Environmental Public Health

Brandie has over 15 years of experience working with the Florida Department of Health in various divisions including Environmental Health, Engineering, Radiation Control, Community Health, and Epidemiology programs.

Brandie has over two years of experience working as a supervisor with the state of Nevada’s Radiation Control Program. Brandie has a bachelor of science in biology from Spring Hill College.

In her free time Brandie enjoys boating and snorkeling with her family.

Fitima Garcia

Biological Scientist, Epidemiology Program

Fitima began her career with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 2016.

After earning her bachelors degree in environmental health from Texas Southern University, she went on to receive her masters degree in environmental policy and management from Florida International University.

Her journey through the Department of Health started soon after, where she worked as an environmental specialist for five years and became a registered sanitarian with the Florida Environmental Health Association. She currently works as a biological scientist for the Epidemiology Program.

In her free time, Fitima enjoys traveling, learning new skills, and spending time with her family.

Mechelle Burgohy

Disease Intervention Specialist, Epidemiology Program  

Mechelle joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County  in September of 1993 and has been a dedicated public health employee for the past 30 years serving the community in which she grew up.

She started as a health support specialist with a stethoscope and glucometer in hand going door to door providing assistance with case management and working hard to build the community’s trust.  Mechelle has served in various capacities and programs including WIC, Immunizations, Prenatal Care, STD, Primary Care, PTSDT, Child Health, Family Planning, Refugee Health, DIS, Prevention, HIV, and Early Intervention.

Throughout her career Mechelle has worked as ADAP coordinator, deputy registrar, laboratory tech, lead phlebotomist, laboratory system administrator, contract manager, community liaison, chronic disease self-management liaison, health educator, contact tracer, minority health wellness liaison, and her current position in the Epidemiology Program, which is DIS, senior human services program specialist for HIV/STI and PrEP services.  These positions were in many different facilities of DOH-Monroe.

Mechelle currently serves on the boards of Zonta Club of Key West, AIPP, and the Fredrick Douglass Black Educator Memorial Project. The roles Mechelle cherishes the most are that of proud mother of three daughters and proud grandmother of four grandchildren. She enjoys spending time with her huge family, cooking, home projects, event planning, and serving her community in her spare time. Mechelle also loves shoes. And one more fun fact about Mechelle is that November of 2023 will mark her 35^th wedding anniversary.

Natalie Aguilar

Front Desk Operations and Management Consultant

Natalie joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in June of 2020 and currently manages the front desk staff at DOH clinics in Key West, Marathon, and Tavernier.

Prior to working at DOH-Monroe, Natalie worked as provider relations coordinator for KPHA, admissions case manager for Hospice of the Florida Keys, and office manager for George D. Peterson, MD.  Natalie has also worked as full charge bookeeper for the Conch Tour Train for Historic Tours of America.

Natalie is proud grandmother to four grandchildren. 

Marie Noel  

Administrative Assistant

Marie joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 2024 working in front desk operations. Marie’s primary work location is the Gato Building in Key West, but she occasionally fills in at the front desk at the other DOH clinic locations in Marathon, Tavernier, and Stock Island.

Marie is fluent in English, Haitian Creole, Spanish, and French. 

In her free time she enjoyed reading, cooking, and spending time with her family and friends.

Selina Perez  

Administrative Assistant

Selina joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 2009 working in front desk operations.  Selina’s primary work location is the Gato Building in Key West, but she occasionally fills in at the front desk at the other DOH clinic locations in Marathon, Tavernier, and Stock Island. She also provides back-up support to the Vital Statistics program for DOH-Monroe, connecting the public with birth and death certificates, and ensuring the accuracy of vital records. 

Prior to working at DOH-Monroe, Selina worked at the Florida Department of Children and Families in Monroe County.

What she likes about her job at DOH-Monroe is the ability to serve and help others and meet people from all walks of life.

Selina is fluent in English and Spanish.   

Selina was born and raised in Key West and is a 3rd generation Conch with Cuban and American roots. She is a proud mom of 4.  In her free time she likes to go boating with her husband and kids and spend time with her family and friends.   

Yani Urena Fermin  

Administrative Assistant

Yani joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 2023 working in front desk operations. Yani’s primary work location is the Ruth Ivins Center in Marathon, but she occasionally fills in at the front desk at the other DOH clinic locations in Key West, Stock Island, and Tavernier. Prior to working at DOH-Monroe, Yani also worked at the front desk for a dental practice in Marathon.

Yani is fluent in English and Spanish.     

Yani is the mother of a beautiful boy, loves animals, loves camping outside, and sharing time with her family and friends.   

Juliana Waynick  

Administrative Assistant

Juliana joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 2009 working in front desk operations. Her primary work location is the Gato Building in Key West, but she occasionally fills in at the front desk at the other DOH clinic locations in Stock Island, Marathon, and Tavernier.

Prior to joining DOH-Monroe Juliana worked at Lower Keys Medical Center for 33 years. Her roles working at the hospital include serving as Health Information Department Manager and Privacy Officer.

Juliana went to school for medical records and earned a Registered Health Information Technician certificate from the American Health Information Management Association. She is board-certified in this field.

Juliana is very close with her family, which includes her daughter, son-in-law and grandson.

Yvette Woods  

Administrative Assistant

Yvette embarked on her remarkable 33-year journey at Monroe General in August 1992, which later evolved into the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County.

Following a brief yet impactful tenure with Florida Department of Transportation, she returned to Key West, leaving an indelible mark at various locations, including the College Road location, Health Care Center, Roosevelt Sands Community Resource Center, and the current Gato Building location. Yvette’s unwavering dedication earned her the esteemed “Employee of the Year” award in 2017.

Throughout her career, Yvette has held numerous titles, including HMS administrator, Medicaid PEPW coordinator, Family Planning coordinator, and billing coordinator, Currently, she serves as Administrative Assistant I, inspiring others with her remarkable work ethic.  Currently, her primary work location is the Gato Building in Key West, but she occasionally fills in at the front desk at the other DOH clinic locations in Stock Island, Marathon, and Tavernier.

Yvette has held many titles during her DOH-Monroe career, but she says no matter what her title has been her priority has always been first and foremost to help people get the assistance and services they need.  

Yvette is a fourth generation conch, and in her spare time she enjoys shopping and spending time with her family and friends.

Jessica Lariz

Healthy Start, Program Manager

Jessica began her career with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 2002. 

After earning her bachelors degree in health education from the University of Florida in 1999, she entered the field of public health. To increase her ability to assist those within Monroe County’s community, she obtained a certificate in lactation counseling.

Jessica currently serves as the senior human service program manager where she supervises the Healthy Start Program, providing education, referrals, and home visits for pregnant women, babies, and families throughout the Florida Keys.

In her free time, Jessica enjoys being on the water and spending time with her two children, family, and friends.

Karen Caridad

Healthy Start Family Support Worker

Karen Caridad serves as a family support worker for Healthy Start. She has been with the DOH-Monroe since 2018 and has been working in the Maternal Child Health and Healthy Start programs since 2020, which has provided her with the opportunity to work and help many clients in need. She is passionate about assisting clients and providing them with information that will be useful and beneficial to them.

Karen is from Mexico and she loves assisting Spanish speaking clients. She has recently attained her certified lactation counselor certificate.

Marie Annulysse

Healthy Start Family Support Worker

Marie was born in Haiti and raised in the Florida Keys.

She has been at DOH-Monroe working with the Healthy Start program since 2017. She considers herself blessed to have the opportunity to work with and help many pregnant women, and women with babies who are in need. Marie is passionate about educating and assisting all of her clients, but specifically enjoys supporting the Haitian community.

During her free time, Marie enjoy spending time at the gym, nature walks, water activities and spending time with her children and her family.

Maria Ximena Rojas

Healthy Start Health Educator

Maria Rojas works as a health educator in the Healthy Start program. She enjoys working and advocating for the most vulnerable women, children, and their families.

Prior to coming to work with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County, she worked as a child protective investigator in  and then worked for the Child Protection Team of the Treasure Coast, completing forensic and specialized interviews and providing expert court testimony in criminal cases of child abuse and neglect.

Maria was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia, has a bachelors degree in psychology and a masters degree in urban and regional planning.

Maria came to the US in 2000, lives with her husband and their two four legged children Paddington and Molly.

Marvin Gifford

Public Health Services Manager, HIV/AIDS Program Coordinator, HIV Prevention and Linkage To Care

Marvin has over 30 years of professional experience in corporate environments, including business management, workplace performance coaching, and building successful teams through skills development and customer service training.

In 2018, he turned his focus to serving the community he lives in, by joining the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County. Marvin now works in HIV prevention and care through educational community events, and growing partner/provider relationships in Monroe County. He also spends a great portion of his time behind the scenes by gathering, reviewing, and reporting on surveillance data in order to support Monroe County’s success in ending the HIV epidemic.

Lisset Ivey, MD, MS, BS

Senior Human Services Program Specialist, Early Intervention Consultant Region 11b

Lisset serves as the Early Intervention Consultant and Prevention Training Consultant for Area 11B, Florida Department of Health in Monroe County (DOH-Monroe), located in the Florida Keys. She has been in the HIV/AIDS field since 1996 and began this important journey working for the American Red Cross doing HIV prevention community-focused presentations. She has also worked in the housing field in the HOPWA and Section 8 Programs. She also managed the Central West and Centro Oeste Catholic Charities Adult Day Care Centers.

In 2008, she completed her doctor of Medicine from St. George’s University School of Medicine, St. George’s, Grenada. Her Clinical Rotations were completed at Staffordshire General Hospital in Stafford, England.

In 2020, Lisset joined DOH-Monroe which has provided her with the opportunity to work very closely with local partner organizations to bring HIV testing and prevention awareness to the Florida Keys community. She also serves as the trainer for the HIV 501 course and HIV 501 updates for registered HIV testing sites and providers to offer HIV testing and counseling.

Jason Bertrand CCMA, CPT, RON

Health Program Educator (Regional HIV Linkage to Care and Outreach Coordinator) and Information Security and Privacy Coordinator

Jason Bertrand is a New England Native who relocated to the Florida Keys in 2015. Since his arrival in Monroe County, he has worked in serval different capacities, but always centered around helping others and the community.  

Jason’s medical career started back in high school a volunteer patient and specimen transporter. He is a trained emergency medical responder and phlebotomist. Jason holds his national certification as an certified clinical medical assistant. Jason is currently working towards earning is bachelors in public health.

In 2018 he began his work in public health and infectious diseases. Jason serves as the linkage to care and outreach coordinator for the HIV prevention and treatment program at DOH-Monroe.

In his free time, you can find him traveling, volunteering in the community, officiating weddings on the beach, or notarizing documents. Jason is a very proud uncle to his niece and nephew. 

Dawn Dumas

Human Services Counselor, AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)

Dawn Dumas is a “Freshwater Conch,” raised in Key West, Florida. She joined ADAP in 2020, serving as coordinator for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. With a background in human services, Dawn has worked for the advocation of disadvantaged children and adults for more than 20 years.

When Dawn is not spending time with her family, she enjoys traveling the world and experiencing new cultures.

Jenifer Darce Rodriguez

Human Services Program Consultant 

Jenifer was born in Nicaragua and moved to Key West in 2003.  She graduated from Key West High School in 2016 and earned an Associate of Science in Health and Human Services from Ultimate Medical Academy in November of 2020.

Jenifer joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in August of 2024 as a Human Services Program Consultant.  Prior to joining DOH-Monroe she worked in front desk operations at Womankind for four years.

Jenifer is very passionate about case management for HIV/AIDS clients and considers it an honor to help our community.

In her free time, she loves to spend time with her family, friends, and her three dogs. She also loves to travel and explore the U.S., go fishing, read books, and trying new restaurants!

Dana Portillo, RNC, BA

School Health Coordinator & School Based Dental Sealant Program Manager

Dana Portillo brings 24 years of nursing experience to this role. Her vast experience includes areas of acute and long-term care, school nursing, and she now oversees 11 school clinics in the county. She monitors and assists with clinic activity, school health screenings, immunizations, and dental site data. She does outreach in the schools and community for students and adults to provide required and recommended immunizations. She oversees the school based dental sealant program.

She participates in several committees and works closely with the Monroe County School District and DOH medical director to create and update policies, coordinate with other community partners, and case manage needs of students within the schools. She holds a BA in psychology from Georgetown College and an ASN from Troy State University.

She arrived in our island chain in 1999 after her husband’s transfer to Key West. She is married with one grown son and enjoys spending precious time with family, DIY, photography, crafts, and cooking. 

Yvonne Gallardo, CNA

School Health Tech at Horace O’Bryant School

Yvonne Gallardo joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in March of 2018 and currently serves as the School Health Tech at Horace O’Bryant School. Yvonne is a 3^rd generation Conch, married for over 40 years, mother of two, and grandmother of two. She has been a certified nurse assistant for over 40 years. Throughout her career, she has worked as a certified nurse assistant in various settings from nursing homes, behavior health clinics, and in every unit at our local hospital. 

Yvonne was also a restaurant business owner for over 10 years. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her family, especially with her 98-year-old dad and 93-year-old mom.

Hannah Hamilton, MHA, RD, LD/N, CLC

Public Health Nutrition Program Director, Breastfeeding Program Coordinator, WIC Program

Hannah Hamilton, RD/LD, CLC, has been working with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County since 2015 and currently manages the local WIC Program. She started her career in public health as a public health nutritionist after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Foods from Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. In addition to a bachelors in nutrition, she received a graduate certificate in pediatric nutrition from Florida International University. She is also a registered dietitian and certified lactation counselor.

She is currently enrolled in the masters program for health care administration at the University of West Florida, with anticipated graduation in December of 2023. Born and raised in the Florida Keys, she enjoys boating, fishing, and snorkeling. Other hobbies include CrossFit, weight training, and spending time with her family.  

Christela Brevil

Health Support Specialist, WIC Program

Christela has been with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County working in the WIC Program since 2002. She was born in Haiti and has been in the Florida Keys since 1991. She is passionate about helping her community and clients, and specifically enjoys advocating for the refugees. She is the face of the Key West WIC Office.

During her free time, Christela enjoys cooking, singing and spending time with family.

Carolyn de Paula, CLC

Peer Counselor Coordinator, WIC Program

Carolyn de Paula serves as a designated breastfeeding expert and peer counselor coordinator with the WIC’s breastfeeding program. From 2018-2022, she served as a breastfeeding peer counselor for Monroe County. She enjoys assisting moms with their breastfeeding goals and believes all moms deserve high-quality breastfeeding education, ongoing support and encouragement. Having been born and raised in Aruba, Carolyn speaks five languages: English, Papiamento, Spanish, Dutch, and some French. She has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Florida International University and attained her certified lactation counselor certification in 2021.

When she’s not attending to peer counselors or clients, she can be found having fun with her family watching movies, hiking and kayaking, playing video games, and researching random topics online. Her family consists of a husband, three children (all were breastfed), and two dogs. Her ideal day would include a good book, strong coffee in hand, and a view of the Carolina mountains.

Wendy Holifield

Public Health Nutritionist, WIC Program

Wendy Holifield, Public Health Nutritionist, is a registered dietitian/licensed nutritionist. Wendy earned a bachelor’s degree in Food Science & Human Nutrition from University of Florida at Gainesville (1997) and in 2003, she received a master’s of science degree in Healthcare Management from Troy University. While Wendy started working at the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 2010, she joined the DOH-Monroe’ County’s WIC team in 2016. Wendy has vast experience as a dietitian/nutritionist and has been in a public health capacity for most of her career. Wendy is a native Floridian who has lived in Key West since 2006. She enjoys helping people and making a positive impact on the community.

When not working for WIC, Wendy provides nutrition services for a home health agency and is a real estate broker and property manager.  In her free time, Wendy enjoys taking long walks through old town and along the waterfront and also enjoys riding her bike.

Suzanne Otto, RDN, LDN

Senior Public Health Nutritionist, WIC Program

Suzanne began her career in the restaurant business and received a bachelors in restaurant administration from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.  She continued her education and became a registered dietitian working as a hospital director of food and nutrition services  before moving to Key West.  In 2008 she began working at the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County and is a senior public health nutritionist with the WIC program.  She is particularly interested in working with parents, guardians, and children to prevent childhood obesity.

In her free time she enjoys cooking with family and friends and attending her son’s sporting events.

Lisa Raum, MS, RDN, LDN

Public Health Nutritionist, WIC Program

Lisa Raum, MS, RDN, LDN, is a Registered Dietitian with a diverse background in food and nutrition. Lisa began he career focused on the preparation and enjoyment of food (having attended culinary arts school initially). She then moved on to learning to appreciate the role of food in human health by acquiring undergraduate and graduate degrees in food and nutrition science. Through working with individuals in various settings geared toward helping others understand the connections between lifestyle and good health, Lisa realized that better understanding the principles of human behavior change would be a complementary skill. Thus, she acquired a master’s degree in psychology as well.

She feels blessed to have worked in a wide variety of settings over the past 30+ years of her career. She has enjoyed helping others by providing education and inspiration to individuals and groups in healthcare settings and to college students (as an adjunct professor). Lisa joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in December of 2022 as a Public Health Nutritionist for the WIC program. Lisa loves everything about food, loves the Florida sunshine, and has the world’s best husband.

Lauren Rutgersen

Health Support Specialist, WIC Program

Lauren Rutgersen joined the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in 2023 as breastfeeding peer counselor for the WIC program.  She currently serves in the role of health support specialist. With over 25 years of residency in the beautiful Florida Keys, she is truly passionate about supporting and empowering local families as they navigate the journey of breastfeeding. Having personally breastfed two children, she understands the joys and challenges that come with this important stage of motherhood.

Crafting is one of her favorite pastimes, allowing her to express her artistic flair and attention to detail. Furthermore, reading is a cherished hobby of hers. She is thrilled to be a part of this incredible team of professionals, where she can combine her passion for breastfeeding support with her love for the local community.

Dardell “Dee” Morin

Senior Clerk, WIC Program

Dee was born in Haiti and raised in New York City, where she graduated from high school in 2022. In December of the same year, she moved to Key West and began working for DOH-Monroe, starting with the Refugee Health Program in March 2023 and later with WIC in November 2023.

Dee feels incredibly fortunate to be part of something as significant and impactful as public health at such a young age. Working with an amazing team fills her with joy, and she finds immense satisfaction in creating even the smallest positive changes in people’s lives. The excitement and smiles on our clients’ faces when we offer them assistance never fails to inspire her. This spring, she started nursing classes towards earning an associate degree in nursing.

Kharla Gautier

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor, WIC Program

Kharla Gautier started working for WIC and the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County in February of 2025. Born and raised in the vibrant Dominican Republic, Kharla has called Key West home since 2012. A proud graduate of Key West High School in 2014, she has spent years contributing to her community in various sales roles before finding her true calling in maternal and infant health. Guided by her passion for holistic wellness, she pursued science courses at the College of the Florida Keys and earned a holistic nutritionist certificate, equipping her with valuable insights into nurturing practices.

Now a dedicated breastfeeding peer counselor, Kharla combines her professional expertise with her own experience as a breastfeeding mom to support families on their breastfeeding journeys. She is committed to empowering parents with knowledge, resources, and confidence as they provide healthy starts for their little ones. Through her work, Kharla has made it her mission to foster connections and advocate for maternal and infant health within her beloved Key West community.