Pamela Thurman-Ford, BS, CHW

Headshot of Pamela Thurman-Ford

Program Coordinator
Texas Childhood Trauma Research Network (TX-CTRN) and Texas Youth Depression & Suicide Research Network (TX-YDSRN)

Phone: 903.877.7060
Email: pamela.thurman@uttyler.edu
Building:   B422
Department: Robert M. Rogers Department of Psychiatry
Additional Department: School of Medicine

With over 17 years of experience in community-focused research and program coordination, Pamela Thurman-Ford is dedicated to addressing health disparities and enhancing quality of life within rural communities. Her work spans a variety of initiatives, including disease management, COVID-19 evaluation, health education, and resource access—each aimed at empowering individuals and improving community health outcomes.

Pamela's passion for community advocacy was ignited early in her life, influenced by her experiences advocating for her grandmother and learning to navigate complex health care and insurance systems. Her background further honed her empathy and communication skills, fueling her commitment to helping others access essential services. This foundation led her to work on health disparities grants targeting issues such as diabetes management and patient compliance, where she developed innovative approaches to community engagement and system navigation.

As a certified community health worker (CHW), Pamela has been instrumental in project coordination, process improvement, and program evaluation. Her expertise includes creating measurable outcomes aligned with institutional goals, ensuring programs effectively meet community needs. She finds great fulfillment in supporting individuals who face barriers to healthcare access, serving as a compassionate advocate and guide.

Pamela holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Texas College and is currently pursuing a master’s in business administration (MBA). She is a proud member of the Texas A&M Forest Service Leadership Institution Class of 2020-2021. In addition to her professional pursuits, Pamela has contributed to her community through roles such as youth director at her church, election judge in Gregg and Smith Counties, former president of the Hawkins ISD Athletic Booster Club, and president of the Forest Landowners Association of Rusk/Smith County.