Paula Lantz

Paula Lantz is the James B. Hudak Professor of Health Policy at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy and a University Professor of Diversity and Social Transformation at the University of Michigan. As a social demographer and social epidemiologist, her research focuses on how public policy can improve population health and reduce health disparities. Currently, Dr. Lantz is investigating critical issues such as abortion policy, housing policy, and the exacerbation of social and health inequities due to COVID-19. She has been recognized as an elected member of both the National Academy of Social Insurance and the National Academy of Medicine.Dr. Lantz teaches various courses that equip students with analytical skills in public policy, including "Assisting Public Sector Decision Makers With Policy Analysis" and "Politics and Ethics of Data Analytics in the Public Sector." With advanced degrees in sociology and epidemiology, she combines rigorous academic research with practical policy implications, aiming to foster social change through informed decision-making.