FSU Assistant Dean of Research Named to TIME’s 2025 List of The Closers
Dr. Eugenia Millender was recently honored by TIME’s 2025 list of The Closers for her efforts as the Co-Director of the Center of Population Sciences for Health Empowerment (CPSHE) at Florida State University (FSU). She is recognized among 25 leaders committed to eradicating inequality in society. This acknowledgment highlights Dr. Millender’s dedication to ensuring everyone can access quality healthcare services.
Dr. Millender at the Impact dinner
TIME magazine honored Dr. Millender at their Impact Dinner in New York City, an event presented by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, bringing together passionate advocates working to address some of the most pressing issues of our time. The recipients have shown leadership and a steadfast commitment to creating long-lasting changes in their local communities and worldwide. They are chosen for their passion for tackling healthcare, business, education, politics, and social justice inequality gaps. The evening was filled with toasts and meaningful conversations among individuals striving to narrow the gap through powerful performances and shared ideas.
Dr. Millender reflected on the night, “This is more than a moment; it’s a movement. We carry the unheard voices, the unseen stories, and the responsibility to drive real, lasting change.”
At the event, Dr. Millender felt deeply touched by the shared enthusiasm and passion in the room. “The energy, the purpose, the commitment in that room was palpable,” she said. “We are not alone in this fight. We are an army, standing shoulder to shoulder, determined to create lasting change.”
(From left to right) Journalist & Author Elaine Welteroth, Dr. Millender, Actor, Director & Producer Colman Domingo
Dr. Millender leads the way in advancing health equity by spearheading initiatives that target factors influencing health and strives to enhance healthcare access for communities through her work at CPSHE and FSU. The Center continues to push equality projects overseen by Dr. Millender that integrate health studies with community engagements and mentoring for future leaders in the health research field. Her leadership at CPSHE showcases a dedication to broadening healthcare access, enhancing health results, and championing policies supporting healthcare systems fairness. Her efforts embody the mission of The Closers: focused not on short-term wins but on action to break down barriers and create long-term systemic change.
“I am deeply honored to be among the incredible TIME Closers, honored, and supporters who are dedicated to breaking barriers and building a more just and equitable future,” she added.
TIME’s recognition of Dr. Millender’s work emphasizes the importance of this movement and solidifies her power to build a more equitable world.
To read the TIME’s article on Dr. Millender and her story, click here.