"As a Health Disparities Researcher, I am motivated by rates of illness and death due to disease (most of which are preventable) that impact various groups, based on gender, race/ethnicity, socioeconomics, and other factors. As a scientist, I am motivated to investigate why these disparities exist, who is most impacted by them, and to work with the communities most impacted to co-develop, co-create, and co-implement solutions (studies, interventions, policies) that will reduce and ultimately eliminate the disparities. I am motivated to center my approach to this work using community-engaged research methodologies understanding that community (those most impacted by the disparity) must be involved in all stages of the work. Their lived experience, cultural norms, and expertise are just as valuable as mine!"