Maria Sarabia
About Maria Sarabia
Maria Sarabia serves as the Assistant Commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Health, bringing extensive experience in public health, social services, and workforce development. She has a strong academic background in social service administration and health equity, and she is committed to promoting health and racial equity in diverse communities.
Work at Minnesota Department of Health
Maria Sarabia serves as the Assistant Commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Health, a position she has held since 2023. In this role, she contributes to public health initiatives and policies aimed at improving health outcomes for the state's diverse populations. Her extensive background in public health and social services informs her approach to addressing health disparities and promoting health equity.
Education and Expertise
Maria Sarabia has a strong educational foundation in social services and public health. She earned a Master of Arts in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago. Additionally, she completed the Health Equity Awakened program at Human Impact Partners, focusing on public health professionals' roles in health equity and justice. She also participated in the Health and Human Services Leadership Institute at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs.
Background
Originally from Chicago and of Mexican descent, Maria identifies as Latina and uses ella, she, her pronouns. She has over a decade of experience in the not-for-profit sector, particularly in Chicago, where she focused on wrap-around services, social justice, and workforce development. Her work has emphasized women's and girls' empowerment and positive youth development.
Previous Work Experience
Maria Sarabia has held various positions in public health and social services. She worked at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a Public Health Prevention Service Fellow from 2009 to 2012 and as a Community Engagement Fellow at the Minneapolis Health Department. She also served in multiple roles at the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Department of Transportation, including Acting Deputy Director in the Office of Civil Rights.
Research and Community Engagement
During her tenure at the Minneapolis Health Department, Maria conducted community-based participatory research focused on the impacts of food and culture within racially and ethnically diverse communities. This research aimed to address chronic health conditions prevalent among these populations, highlighting her commitment to health equity and community engagement.