**Boston, MA** – **[Dr. Deidra Rawlins](https://antiguanewsroom.com/minister-of-education-hon-daryll-matthew-applauds-upps-belated-support-for-university-town-vision-in-five-islands/?swcfpc=1)** , a proud daughter of Antigua and Barbuda, has earned a **Master of Public Health (MPH)** from the prestigious **Boston University School of Public Health** , with a concentration in **Health Equity**.
This latest achievement builds on her credentials as a licensed medical doctor (MD) and marks a significant milestone in her mission to improve health outcomes for underserved populations.
**[Dr. Rawlins](https://antiguanewsroom.com/minister-of-education-hon-daryll-matthew-applauds-upps-belated-support-for-university-town-vision-in-five-islands/?swcfpc=1)** ‘ pursuit of the MPH reflects a deep commitment to lifelong learning, a core principle in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.
By blending her clinical expertise with public health training, she is uniquely positioned to advocate for systems-level change that ensures access, dignity, and equity in health.
“The power of combining the MD with an MPH is that I now have both the lens to treat the patient in front of me and the tools to address the social and systemic barriers affecting entire communities,” said Dr. Rawlins.
“Specializing in health equity has reaffirmed my passion for ensuring that no one is left behind—regardless of their income or background.”
Dr. Rawlins was joined at the graduation by her husband **Marlon Rawlins** , daughter **Madison** , son **Matthew** , mother **Nalda Peterson** , and mother-in-law **Generis Rawlins** —a circle of support who traveled from near and far to celebrate the occasion in Boston on Saturday 17 May 2025.
She was supported remotely by her friends and family including her dad **Reginald Peterson** of Liberta.
Currently based in **Addis Ababa, Ethiopia** , Dr. Rawlins remains deeply rooted in her Antiguan identity and has made clear her intention to return home in the near future.
“I am fully committed to coming back to Antigua to make a meaningful contribution to the health and development of our people,” she said. “Giving back to the place that gave me my foundation is not just a goal—it’s a promise.”
In a heartfelt message, she shared:
“To my children Matthew and Madison—this journey is for you.
I hope you always strive to be the best version of yourselves, chase your dreams fearlessly, and know that excellence and empathy can go hand in hand. Reach for the stars—your possibilities are limitless.”
With unwavering pride in her Antiguan roots and a passion for global impact, Dr. Deidra Rawlins embodies what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and courage.
Dr Rawlins is a graduate of the St. Andrews Primary School, Antigua Girls High School, Antigua State College and University of the West Indies.
Antigua and Barbuda proudly celebrates her outstanding accomplishment and the legacy she continues to build—locally and globally.