Marquis Who's Who Honors Dr. Teresa E. Leslie, a Scientist, Community Engagement Specialist and Educator Whose Work Lies at the Intersection of Public Health and Agriculture/Food Systems
Press Release March 16, 2026
In addition to her research on the interaction between people, the environment, animals, and pathogens, Dr. Leslie has authored books and articles examining sustainable community development.
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BALTIMORE, MD, March 16, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Teresa Leslie has been included in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Dr. Leslie has established a distinguished career in public health and agriculture/food systems, marked by her expertise and commitment to advancing regenerative practices and supporting farming communities. Since 2024, she has served as the director of the Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program and research faculty at the University of Vermont in Burlington.

In her current capacity, Dr. Leslie leads an organization dedicated to supporting farmers and advocating for regenerative agriculture. She is particularly proud of attaining this leadership role, which was a deliberate and meaningful pursuit. Her work not only advances her own research but also empowers others to conduct impactful studies. Dr. Leslie is keenly aware of the challenges facing small vegetable and livestock farms compared to large monoculture operations, and she finds it rewarding to champion those who contribute significantly to sustainable food systems.

Her interdisciplinary approach bridges public health and community engagement, further enhancing her impact on urban agricultural initiatives. Dr. Leslie has also served as public health research director at EcoRAY since 2019, where she continues to guide research projects that intersect environmental sustainability with public health outcomes.

From 2021 to 2023, Dr. Leslie served as the scientific director of the International Vaccine Access Center at the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University. During this period, she oversaw scientific research initiatives focused on vaccine access and public health advocacy. Between 2020 and 2023, she served as a contract tracing and vaccine advocacy trainer with Central Maryland Area Health Education Center Inc., where she played a vital role in pandemic response efforts by training professionals in contact-tracing protocols and vaccine outreach.

Dr. Leslie's earlier career includes serving as director of the Eastern Caribbean Public Health Foundation from 2013 to 2020, where she led regional health initiatives aimed at improving community well-being across island nations. In 2012 and 2013, she was the director of research and scientific development at the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine, overseeing academic research programs and fostering scientific advancement within the institution.

Previously, Dr. Leslie held the role of research associate at the University of Maryland, College Park, from 2011 to 2013, following her time as a senior lecturer from 2010 to 2011. Between 2009 and 2012, she served as a visiting scientist at the Naval Medical Research Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she participated in collaborative scientific investigations relevant to military medicine.

Dr. Leslie's education has been instrumental in shaping her professional trajectory. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy in anthropology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, following a master's degree in anthropology from the University of South Carolina. Her academic journey began with a bachelor's degree in liberal arts and sciences from Howard University.

Throughout her career, Dr. Leslie has attributed her success to perseverance — continuing steadfastly in pursuits that are both enjoyable and meaningful despite challenges or discouragements. This quality has enabled her to achieve prominence as an expert in agriculture and food systems. Her motto, "Do what you love, help others, and keep moving," has served as a guiding principle throughout her professional journey.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Leslie is actively involved in civic organizations that reflect her commitment to community service and environmental stewardship. Since 2023, she has served as president of Ivy Creek Foundation Inc., leading efforts to preserve natural resources and promote environmental education. She was president of Baltimore Sister Cities from 2022 to 2023, fostering international collaboration between Baltimore and its global partners.

From 2021 to 2023, Dr. Leslie contributed as a board member for the League of Women Voters Baltimore City, supporting civic engagement initiatives. As the vice president of the Baltimore-Rotterdam Sister City Committee from 2019 to 2021, she helped strengthen transatlantic relationships through cultural exchange programs. Additionally, Dr. Leslie was the president of Sint Eustatius National Parks from 2016 to 2019, guiding conservation efforts on the island.

In her personal life, Dr. Leslie enjoys walking her dog and spending time with her family. Looking ahead, she remains fully committed to making an impact wherever she is most needed, whether continuing in her current field or contributing elsewhere, guided by a dedication to meaningful work and adaptability in service of the greater good.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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