The de Beaumont Foundation has recently announced its 40 Under 40 in Public Health Class of 2025, with Bria Miller of the Durham County Department of Public Health earning a spot on the list. Miller, who coordinates the Partnership for a Healthy Durham, has been recognized for leading a group working to improve the health of people in Durham. According to Durham County, the partnership has worked to get more people involved from different areas like healthcare, housing, transportation, and more.
Miller has been important in working with many community members and helping publish important reports like the yearly State of the County Health report and the Community Health Assessment (CHA), which happens every three years. These reports have won Awards of Excellence and an Award of Recognition for their teamwork and thoroughness. “Bria is instrumental to the work of the Partnership and to public health in Durham as a whole,” Dr. Rod Jenkins, DCoDPH Director, said in the county's announcement. With Miller’s help, the Partnership has grown quickly and completed their largest Community Health Assessment.
In recognition of her leadership and contributions to community health, Miller has been included among a group of honorees consisting of program managers, researchers, and senior leaders from various sectors. An expert panel of public health leaders reviewed the nominees, evaluating qualities such as leadership, vision, and the ability to collaborate across sectors. Those selected will take part in a year-long professional development program designed to enhance their skills and support the impact of their work.
Miller's recognitions go beyond the de Beaumont award. Under her leadership, the Durham County Department of Public Health was named Health Department of the Year in 2024 and successfully nominated their partner, El Centro, for the 2025 Partnership Award from the NC Public Health Association. The department states that a grant from The Duke Endowment has played a key role in supporting these initiatives, providing $750,000 over five years to fund programs focused on chronic conditions, physical activity, and food access.
