Schlangen is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of people around the world. Currently, she works as a senior program coordinator at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, working in global health. Her journey to global health began at Gustavus, where she majored in biology and history. The college's emphasis on problem-solving and cultural awareness provided her with a strong foundation for her future career. "Gustavus taught me how to think critically and analyze complex issues," she said. "This skillset has been invaluable in my work at the Gates Foundation."
After graduating, Schlangen spent two years teaching English in South Korea. "It was a transformative experience," she said. "It allowed me to immerse myself in a different culture and learn about the challenges faced by people in other settings." She then pursued a Master's degree in Global Health Policy from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, which solidified her commitment to global health.
At the Gates Foundation, Schlangen works on a portfolio of investments focused on immunization programs in low and middle income countries. She is passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic status, has access to life-saving vaccines. “I’m fortunate to work with incredible people from all over the world,” Schlangen said. “We’re working together to address some of the most pressing global health challenges, and it’s incredibly rewarding.”
One of Schlangen’s proudest accomplishments is her recent work on the HPV Vaccine Delivery Learning Agenda Convening. This event brought together experts from around the world to discuss strategies for increasing access, affordability, and uptake of the HPV vaccine.
The Life of a Global Health Program Coordinator
A typical day for Schlangen involves a variety of tasks, from reviewing grant proposals and monitoring project progress to attending meetings with partners and stakeholders. She also spends time working with partners to troubleshoot issues, make investments, and develop strategies to combat global vaccine challenges. As a program coordinator, she plays a crucial role in ensuring that the Foundation's investments have a lasting impact. She works closely with grantees to provide technical assistance, monitor progress, and evaluate outcomes. She is also involved in developing new strategies and initiatives to address emerging health challenges. She has traveled to many countries in this role that have given her a firsthand understanding of the importance of sustainable, community-led solutions in low-income countries.
One of the most rewarding aspects of her job is the opportunity to work with people from diverse backgrounds. "I've learned so much from my colleagues and partners around the world," she said. "It's inspiring to see how people from different cultures can come together to solve common problems."
A Liberal Arts Education: A Strong FoundationSchlangen's diverse academic background, combined with her passion for global health, has enabled her to make a significant impact on the world. "I never thought that my history degree would be directly applicable to my work in global health," she said. "But the critical thinking skills I developed as a history major have been invaluable in contextualizing data and making informed decisions in a heavily nuanced and complex environment.” A liberal arts education equips you with the tools to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. These skills are essential for success in any field."
