Mona Hanna Attisha

Mona Hanna Attisha is a pioneering pediatrician and public health advocate whose groundbreaking research unveiled the Flint water crisis, a pivotal moment in American public health. As the author of the acclaimed book “What the Eyes Don’t See,” which was recognized as one of The New York Times’ 100 notable books of 2018, she has transformed the narrative around environmental health and children’s safety. Her relentless advocacy began in 2015 when she discovered alarming lead levels in Flint’s water, leading her to conduct a pivotal study that revealed a significant increase in lead exposure among local children.

Hanna’s courage to publicly disclose her findings at a press conference, despite facing criticism from state officials, catalyzed immediate action and awareness regarding the crisis. Her leadership extended to the establishment of the Flint Child Health and Development Fund, which raised over $17 million to support affected families. In 2016, she was appointed to key committees by Michigan’s governor, further solidifying her role as a crucial voice in public health policy.

In addition to her clinical work, Hanna has held significant academic positions, including her recent appointment as the Associate Dean for Public Health at Michigan State University. Her innovative initiatives, such as the Pediatric Public Health Initiative, have set new standards for addressing childhood lead exposure and health disparities.

Hanna’s influence extends beyond academia; she has testified before Congress multiple times, advocating for comprehensive reforms in drinking water safety and public health infrastructure. Her work not only highlights the urgent need for systemic change but also inspires a new generation of health professionals to prioritize community health and advocacy.