About Me
Life takes on many shapes, here’s how mine is shaping up.
My Story js-hero-timeline
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1986 || Where It All Began
A Heritage of Strength
Born in 1986 with deep Haitian roots, Dr. Magdala Chery’s story began with the vibrant culture and resilience of her ancestry. Her family’s journey through the healthcare system was more than a backdrop—it was the spark that ignited her passion for medicine.
The Making of a Healer
Growing up as a proud Jersey Girl, Dr. Chery’s early years were shaped by a strong sense of community. She inherited the strength of her Haitian lineage and the drive to create meaningful change in the world, laying the foundation for her future in healthcare.
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2010 - 2014 || Born a Leader
Charting Her Course
As she entered Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Chery wasn’t just another medical student—she was a leader in the making. Her determination and vision quickly set her apart.
Leading with Purpose
Elected as President of the Student National Medical Association (SNMA), Dr. Chery’s leadership was fueled by a deep commitment to advocacy and equity. She didn’t just follow the path—she blazed new trails, earning prestigious honors like the Gold Humanism Award, becoming an Albert Schweitzer Fellow, and a Paul Ambroise Scholar.
Finding Her Voice
This period marked the beginning of Dr. Chery’s journey as a powerful speaker and thought leader, as she began to establish her brand and voice, destined to influence many.
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2014 - 2020 || Building the Next Generation of Physicians
Excellence in Training
Completing her internal medicine residency at UCONN with distinction in primary care was just the beginning. Dr. Chery’s passion for patient care and equity became her guiding star.
Health Equity in Academia
As a Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine faculty member, Dr. Chery wasn’t content to just teach—she transformed. She revolutionized the curriculum by embedding health equity into the training of future physicians, earning accolades as South Jersey’s Top Doc in 2018 and 2019.
Trailblazing Advocate
Her influence reached far beyond the classroom, recognized as a Yale Global Health Scholar, a Women of Change Leader at the White House, and the recipient of the Richard A. Garibaldi, MD Humanitarian Award.
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2019 - 2020 || Advancing Health Equity and Advocacy in Historically Marginalized Communities
Championing Change
Dr. Chery’s mission to advance the Black community and push for equity took center stage. Through initiatives like TheAcademy365 for Black Boys and Natural Hair in Medicine, she harnessed the power of community engagement to drive meaningful change. She connected with local organizations, delivering talks that inspired action and set the stage for the next chapter of her impactful journey.
Voice of Leadership
As a New Leaders Council fellow, Dr. Chery’s leadership was recognized and amplified.
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2020 || Health Inequities Hit Home, Advocacy for All
A Personal Call to Action
The COVID-19 pandemic hit close to home for Dr. Chery, fueling her commitment to advocacy like never before. She founded Not Just a Black Body, Inc., launching the #NotJustABlackBody campaign to confront the stark healthcare inequities exposed by the pandemic.
Leading the Charge
Dr. Chery’s advocacy transcended her own experience, as she collaborated on the Just Democracy Campaign, pushing for systemic change. Her leadership was more than a role—it was a personal mission, driven by the belief that healthcare is a right for all.
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2020 - 2021 || Transforming Healthcare
Visionary at Harvard
As a Commonwealth Fund Fellow at Harvard, Dr. Chery didn’t just earn a Master’s in Public Health—she expanded her vision to transform healthcare delivery on a grand scale. Her fellowship was a launchpad for her innovative ideas on leadership and management in healthcare.
A Voice in the World
Dr. Chery’s expertise and influence grew, as she became a sought-after speaker and thought leader, sharing her insights across industries and platforms. From keynote addresses to fireside chats, her voice resonated in venues like LinkedIn, GoodRx, Oscar Health, and Harvard University.
Recognition and Impact
Her transformative work was recognized when she was named a National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) 40 under 40 Leader in Minority Health, solidifying her place as a trailblazer in the field.
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2021 - 2022 || Daring to Be Different
Innovating in Medicine
At Clover Health, Dr. Chery took her mission to the frontlines, delivering care directly to communities with complex social and medical needs. Her work wasn’t just about treating patients—it was about creating a model of care rooted in equity, meeting patients where they are.
Bold Career Pivot
Embracing the challenge of the digital health landscape, Dr. Chery transitioned to Google Health as a Health Equity Clinical Specialist. Here, she brought her expertise to the tech world, driving impact at the intersection of healthcare and technology, and proving that true innovation comes from daring to be different.
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2023 - 2024 || Recognition and Leadership
Honored and Respected
In 2023, Dr. Chery’s leadership and impact were recognized with the Black Health Connect 40 under 40 Award. This accolade was more than a milestone—it was a testament to her unwavering commitment to health equity.
A Leader Redefined
Dr. Chery redefined what it means to lead with purpose. Her focus on change management and impactful leadership set her apart, as she continued to drive the conversation forward, always prioritizing values over titles.
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Today || Values Over Titles
Rooted in Purpose
Beyond her impressive titles and accolades, Dr. Magdala Chery’s journey is driven by a deep sense of purpose. Her lived experiences, shaped by her Haitian heritage and New Jersey upbringing, have fueled her passion for culture, community, and educational advancement.
Life Beyond Medicine
When she’s not transforming healthcare, Dr. Chery indulges in the simple joys that keep her grounded—whether it’s practicing self-care, exploring natural hair tutorials, enjoying a game of basketball, or planning her next travel adventure. These passions reflect her belief in the importance of balance, authenticity, and staying true to her roots.
Legacy of Leadership
Dr. Chery’s story is a testament to her unwavering commitment to lead with integrity, impact, and compassion. She embodies the principle that true leadership is not defined by titles, but by the values and purpose that guide every step of the journey.
more to the story
Accomplishments and accolades galore.
(Humbly speaking).