Meet Chantil Coleman

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chantil Coleman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chantil, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My perspective on work-life balance has changed significantly over time. Earlier in my career, I thought balance meant giving equal time to work and my personal life. As my responsibilities grew—both professionally and academically—I realized that balance isn’t about splitting time evenly. It’s about being intentional with where I invest my energy based on what’s most important in a given season.

There have been times when work or school required more of my attention, but I’ve learned that sustained success depends on making space for rest, family, friendships, and the activities that help me recharge. I’ve also become more comfortable setting boundaries and recognizing that saying no to one opportunity sometimes means saying yes to something more meaningful.

Today, I think of work-life balance as alignment rather than perfection. My goal is to be fully present wherever I am—whether I’m leading at work, pursuing my education, or spending time with the people I care about. That mindset has helped me avoid burnout, continue growing professionally, and enjoy the journey instead of constantly chasing the next milestone.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I currently serve as a Senior Management Analyst with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), supporting the Public Health Associate Program (PHAP). I began my career with the program in 2021 as a Public Health Analyst and was fortunate to earn a promotion to my current role. That progression has reinforced my belief that dedication, continuous learning, and a willingness to take on new challenges create opportunities for growth.

In my current position, I help ensure the program operates effectively by coordinating logistics for national in-person trainings, managing a variety of operational initiatives, and supporting the day-to-day work that allows our team to successfully develop the next generation of public health professionals. While much of my work happens behind the scenes, I take pride in creating systems and processes that help others succeed. I’ve learned that strong leadership isn’t always about being the person in front—it’s often about building the foundation that allows a team to thrive.

What sets me apart is my commitment to service and continuous growth. I’ve never viewed my career as simply having a job. Instead, I see it as an opportunity to create meaningful impact, develop others, and contribute to strengthening our public health workforce. Every experience has taught me the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and leading with integrity.

Looking ahead, my goal is to earn my doctorate and continue growing as a leader within public health. I aspire to serve in an executive leadership role, such as a director, where I can help shape programs and policies that improve communities. I’m also passionate about teaching and mentoring future public health professionals as an adjunct professor, because I believe knowledge should be shared and leadership should be cultivated.

If there’s one thing I’d want people to know about my story, it’s that success isn’t defined by titles alone—it’s measured by the lives you impact along the way. My mission has always been to serve, lead with purpose, and leave every organization and every community better than I found it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit for a week, I’d want to give them a mix of Atlanta’s energy and the slower moments that make me appreciate living here. One of our first stops would definitely be the BeltLine. I love going for a walk or bike ride there because it’s a great way to enjoy the city, get some fresh air, and discover local art, restaurants, and hidden gems along the way.

I’m also a foodie, so trying new restaurants would definitely be on the itinerary. I enjoy exploring different cuisines and believe some of the best conversations happen over a great meal. Whether it’s finding a new brunch spot, a local favorite, or a unique dining experience, I’m always excited to try something different.

Outside of food, I enjoy exploring the city, checking out local events, and trying new experiences. Sometimes that means visiting a museum or a festival, and other times it’s something creative like a DIY activity where we can laugh, create something together, and make memories.

As much as I enjoy getting out and exploring, I’m also a homebody at heart. Sundays are my reset day. During football season, you’ll usually find me relaxing at home, cheering on my Pittsburgh Steelers, and getting mentally prepared for the week ahead. I’ve learned that balancing adventure with quiet moments helps me recharge and appreciate both.

For me, the best part of any city isn’t just the places you visit—it’s the experiences you create and the people you share them with.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are several people and communities who deserve recognition for the role they’ve played in my journey. First and foremost, I give all honor and thanks to God. My faith has been my foundation through every season of life, and I truly believe that none of the opportunities, growth, or success I’ve experienced would have been possible without His guidance, grace, and favor.

I’m also incredibly grateful for my family—especially my mom and my brother. They have been my biggest supporters, my greatest source of inspiration and motivation, and the people I can always count on for honest advice and encouragement. Knowing they believe in me has given me the confidence to pursue opportunities that once felt beyond my reach.

I’d also like to recognize my friends, who have celebrated my successes, encouraged me through challenges, and reminded me to keep going when the road wasn’t easy. And to my sisters in the Order of the Eastern Star and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated—thank you for exemplifying leadership, service, scholarship, and sisterhood. Being surrounded by women who challenge and uplift one another has made me a stronger leader and a better person.

Finally, I’d like to recognize my community. I truly believe it takes a village, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people, mentors, educators, and organizations that invested in me and gave me access to opportunities and resources as I was growing up. Their belief in me helped shape the person I’ve become. That’s why giving back is so important to me. I see community service and mentorship not just as something I do, but as a responsibility. I want to help create opportunities for others, just as so many people did for me.

No one achieves success alone. Every milestone I’ve reached is a reflection of God’s grace and the love, support, and investment of so many people along the way. For that, I will always be grateful, and I hope to honor that support by paying it forward and helping others reach their own potential.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantil-coleman-mph