Dr. Marissa Robinson
BHC 40 Under 40 | Class of 2026 | From the Ground Up
CEO & Principal Consultant | Real Health Impact, LLC | Washington, DC
Dr. Marissa Robinson is an infectious disease researcher, public health strategist, and founder building at the intersection of science, policy, and lived experience.
As CEO of Real Health Impact, she works across public health systems and community settings to translate research into practice, strengthening programs and advancing equity through work that is both data-driven and deeply human.
The Journey
Her path into healthcare was shaped by a profound personal experience.
Navigating a tumor in her jaw required multiple surgeries over more than a decade, including periods of recovery that forced her to relearn fundamental functions like speaking and walking.
"It forced me to understand my body, my voice, and my power..."
Those experiences gave her a perspective that extends beyond training. She understands healthcare from both sides, as a patient navigating uncertainty and as a professional working to improve the system itself.
What This Recognition Means
For Dr. Robinson, this recognition signals that her work is resonating.
It reflects the breadth of how she shows up across research, education, and community engagement. It also represents responsibility. Increased visibility brings increased opportunity to shape conversations, open doors, and push for systemic change.
She sees it as both a milestone and a continuation.
What’s Next
She is focused on expanding her voice as a thought leader in infectious disease and health equity.
Her work includes scaling Real Health Impact into a platform that supports organizations with strategy and implementation, while continuing her role as an educator training the next generation of public health leaders.
Across all of it, the focus remains consistent. Connecting research to action and ensuring that the people most affected are not left out of the conversation.
"Healthcare, science, and medicine need your presence..."
Dr. Robinson’s work reflects a powerful integration of experience and expertise. It is not only about advancing knowledge, but about ensuring that knowledge leads to real change.
Connect
Instagram: @dr.marissa_rob
LinkedIn: Dr. Marissa Robinson
X: @marissa_rob
TikTok: @dr.marissa_rob
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The BHC 40 Under 40 Class of 2026 honors the next generation of healthcare leaders reshaping how care is built, delivered, and experienced. Honorees will be celebrated at the Black Health Ball on June 27, 2026.