Mario De La Rosa, distinguished university professor at Florida International University's Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, has received two prestigious recognitions highlighting his contributions to scientific research, leadership and mentorship.
De La Rosa was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida (ASEMFL) and selected to receive the National Award of Excellence in Mentorship from the National Hispanic Science Network (NHSN).
ASEMFL brings together distinguished scientists, engineers and medical professionals whose work has made significant contributions to their respective fields. The academy promotes scientific advancement, fosters collaboration and provides expertise to help address challenges facing Florida. De La Rosa, who was elected to the academy in 2022, joins its board following decades of research focused on improving health outcomes among underserved populations.
His second recognition, the National Award of Excellence in Mentorship, honors his commitment to supporting the professional development of emerging researchers. Presented by NHSN, the award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to mentoring scientists and advancing research on substance use and health disparities affecting Hispanic communities.
At Stempel College, De La Rosa serves as endowed university professor in health equity and director of the Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA). For more than three decades, his research has examined how social, cultural and environmental factors influence substance use, HIV risk and health disparities among Latino populations.
Under his leadership, CRUSADA has grown into a nationally recognized center for research, training and community engagement, supporting the development of graduate students, postdoctoral scholars and faculty pursuing careers in health disparities research.