Marc Anthony Simpson

Growing up in a family of healthcare professionals, I learned early on what it means to serve others and to advocate for those who can’t always advocate for themselves. Over time, I began to see how the challenges people face in healthcare often extend far beyond the clinic. They are tied to the environments we live in, the policies that shape our communities, and the resources that are or aren’t available to us. 

In my rural hometown in Northeast Alabama, I saw firsthand how environmental and infrastructural neglect affected community health and opportunity. Things like poor water quality, unreliable public services, and limited transportation options weren’t just inconveniences. They shaped people’s lives and health outcomes. Those experiences opened my eyes to how much policy influences quality of life, especially in underserved communities.

That realization led me to study Urban and Community Studies and to focus on public policy. I want to understand how to build more sustainable and equitable systems that make it possible for every community to thrive. My interests lie in environmental justice and urban sustainability, particularly how law and policy can work together to promote healthier and more resilient cities.

Resilience, empathy, and a strong work ethic are values I’ve carried with me throughout my education and career. Whether I was working directly with patients or studying how policy impacts communities, I’ve always been driven by the same goal: to make a tangible difference. I plan to bring that same dedication to law school and beyond, working toward a future where equity, sustainability, and health are built into the foundation of our cities and policies.