Our Founder

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Dr. Pamela Pugh is a public health leader, advocate, and policymaker dedicated to advancing equity and justice for marginalized communities. With over two decades of experience at the intersection of public health, education, and environmental justice, she has been at the forefront of addressing systemic inequities, particularly those affecting underserved communities.

A champion for public health, Dr. Pugh played a critical role in exposing and responding to the Flint Water Crisis, bringing national attention to the devastating consequences of governmental neglect. Her leadership extends beyond crisis response to proactive policy solutions that promote clean water, environmental justice, and equitable access to healthcare and education.

As President of the Michigan State Board of Education, Dr. Pugh has fought for increased school funding, policies that ensure equity in education, and the elimination of barriers that hinder student success. A strong proponent of safe, healthy, and supportive school environments, she works to create learning spaces that prioritize student well-being. Her expertise in science-based policy solutions has made her a trusted voice in shaping policies that improve community health and opportunity.

Dr. Pugh is also a dedicated political leader. As a progressive Black woman, Democrat, and Christian, she stands unapologetically for justice, equity, and human dignity. In 2024, she ran for U.S. Congress in Michigan’s 8th Congressional District, bringing her experience in public health, education, and environmental justice to the forefront of federal policymaking. Her campaign was a testament to the challenges that bold, truth-telling leaders often face—especially Black women in progressive spaces. Despite systemic pushback, political gatekeeping, and efforts to silence her, she remained steadfast in advocating for the people who are too often ignored.

Recognizing the need to uplift and fund candidates who share a commitment to transformative change, Dr. Pugh founded BOSS UP PAC (Boldly Organizing for Social Solutions that Uplift People). The PAC was created to challenge the status quo and support leaders who won’t back down in the fight for justice, equity, and opportunity—especially in the face of resistance from both ideological opponents and political insiders who fear true progress.

A sought-after speaker, Dr. Pugh delivers powerful messages on leadership, public health, racial and environmental justice, and the role of Black women in shaping policy and political change. She continues to inspire, organize, and uplift communities, ensuring the most vulnerable voices are heard and prioritized.

Dr. Pugh holds a Doctor of Public Health and a Master of Science in Public Health from the University of Michigan, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Florida A&M University. In recognition of her unwavering dedication to social justice, health justice, fundraising, research, and advocacy, she has twice received the prestigious NAACP Dr. Montague Cobb Award for her contributions to health justice. She was also honored with the Dr. Ralph J. Bunche Humanitarian Award by the United Nations Association of the United States of America Greater Detroit Chapter (UNA-USA Greater Detroit) for advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals and upholding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Dr. Pugh remains committed to advancing policies that create a healthier, more just society for all.