Reginé Bumper: A Rising Star in Public Health
Reginé Bumper, MPH ’21, is a dedicated public servant whose career trajectory has been positively shaped by her experiences at George Mason University’s Master of Public Health program. Thanks to faculty mentorship, student leadership, and practical experience, Bumper has cultivated the necessary relationships and skills that propelled her to her current role at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). She has been recognized as one of the George Mason Black Alumni Chapter’s 2026 40 Under 40.
Reginé Bumper, MPH ’21
Impactful Experiences
Bumper cites her involvement in the Graduate Students for Public Health (GSPH) organization and her practicum as critical to her success. “The relationships I built through GSPH were invaluable; one connection led me to an internship at SAMHSA,” she noted, connecting her academic experiences directly to her professional opportunities.
As a social science analyst at SAMHSA, Bumper manages the performance of contracts and develops visualizations and communications products that make complex data comprehensible, ultimately supporting behavioral health initiatives.
Bridging Coursework and Career
The student leadership opportunities not only opened doors for her practicum but also enhanced her coursework. Bumper highlights Jumpka Gupta’s Migrant Health course and Kathryn Jacobson’s Global Health course as particularly pertinent to her current responsibilities. “In a federal statistical unit, clear communication of data is essential. Those courses taught me the art of data storytelling,” she explained.
Her coursework encouraged her to think critically about data narratives, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the individuals behind the statistics. “Meaningful public health decisions start with understanding who the data represents,” Bumper emphasized.
The Role of Mentorship
Bumper describes the MPH faculty as accessible, supportive, and genuinely invested in student success. “Their mentorship personalized my experience and empowered me to pursue a career that aligns with my passions,” she shared.
She specifically appreciated the program’s adaptability, noting how faculty and staff responded to student feedback by developing new courses and creating networking opportunities. “This investment not only prepares graduates for the current public health landscape but also empowers them to shape the field’s future,” she stated.
Reginé Bumper’s journey exemplifies how education, mentorship, and community can converge to create impactful careers in public health.
