Mary DeCoster

I am a highly motivated and recognized leader in the field of Social and Behavior Change, with strong experience in multidisciplinary application of behavioral sciences theory and practice including extensive work in maternal, child and reproductive health. I received the 2019 Dory Storms Child Survival recognition award from CORE Group for leadership in increasing collaboration and transparency within the community of practice. I have a master’s degree from the Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina, in the Department of Health Behavior. I create practical, user-friendly tools so that front-line change agents’ work yields significantly more effective, sustainable and resilience-building results. I have a strong drive to develop and test innovative solutions to perplexing problems such as harmful and persistent social norms that trap families and communities in cycles of poverty and hopelessness, collaboratively working with communities and front-line staff to develop and take ownership of their own solutions. I strongly value curiosity, co-creation, critical thinking and am always seeking to learn more about what motivates and sustains positive change, equity, and justice.  I am working as an Independent Consultant in SBC, and would welcome your referrals.