Center for Health Policy Assistant Research Professor and Project Manager Sandina Begic was recently named a Boise State University 2026 President’s Community Service Award recipient. The Center for Health Policy is part of the School of Public and Population Health.
The President’s Community Service Award for Faculty and Staff is a prestigious distinction that celebrates and honors the remarkable contributions of university employees who have displayed an extraordinary dedication to serving and enriching the broader community. This esteemed accolade recognizes individuals whose commitment to community engagement, philanthropy, and active volunteerism has demonstrated a profound positive influence beyond the boundaries of the university.
For nearly 15 years, Begic has supported the Idaho Home Visiting Program in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. The program provides strengths-based, early intervention services to at-risk expectant mothers and families with young children throughout Idaho. Utilizing an evidence-based approach, the program promotes maternal and family wellbeing, improves family stability and strengthens children’s school readiness. Begic says that parents who participate in the Idaho Home Visiting Program report significant improvements in their ability to parent, form positive relationships, care for their children, reduce daily stress, and access community resources.
Begic’s passion for research shines through in her support of Idaho’s local agencies, projects, researchers and students. This year, two of Begic’s research project mentees — Master of Public Health students Jaeda Reed and Jasmine Ducusin — received awards at the Graduate Student Showcase.
“Working at the Center affords me with a wonderfully rewarding opportunity to mentor students while supporting local agencies in implementing life-changing programs to some of the most vulnerable populations in our state,” Begic said.
This award, Begic said, validates her belief that university research combined with community resources can always work to address community needs better when partnered than alone.
“I am honored by this recognition that affirms my long-standing partnership with the dedicated Idaho Home Visiting Program team and the remarkable home visiting workforce who work tirelessly to provide compassionate support, reassurance and encouragement to families with young children in our state,” Begic said.
Begic received this award alongside Boise State faculty members Casey Iezzi and Gundars Kaupins.