Session 3
AI and Health: Paying It Forward
Thursday, January 16, 2025
1:30 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.
The Promise and Peril of AI and the Future of Environmental Health Protection
SVP, Environmental Health
Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)
Matthew Tejada leads the Natural Resources Defense Council’s clean air, water, toxics and climate adaptation programs. Tejada brings extensive experience in environmental justice and public health advocacy. Prior to the NRDC, he directed environmental justice initiatives at the Environmental Protection Agency, developing grants and screening tools, and managing community engagement efforts. Tejada also served as executive director of Air Alliance Houston and held roles with the Texas Public Interest Research Group.
Artificial Intelligence and Public Health: Preparing for Tomorrow's Challenges Today
Division Manager, Data Services
Houston Health Department
Imran Shaikh is an experienced public health professional with expertise in epidemiology, informatics, medicine, and infection control. A medical graduate from India, he practiced medicine before earning a Master’s in Public Health from San Diego State University. Shaikh has worked in clinical research at the University of California, San Diego, and MD Anderson, and has been with the Houston Health Department since 2015.
Code Green: AI Solutions for Houston's Climate Health Crisis
Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives
Center for Houston's Future
Megan Rose leads the strategic efforts of the Center for Houston’s Future to advance health and equity across the Greater Houston area. She has authored several key reports on maternal health, climate health, and AI in healthcare, highlighting economic and equity impacts. Rose’s career spans strategy and project management roles at AT&T, Goldman Sachs, and private consulting, equipping her to connect research and policy with actionable healthcare solutions.
AI: A Tool for Building Community Power
Executive Director
Yale Center for Environmental Justice
Michel Gelobter has built a diverse career across the private, public, government, and non-profit sectors, focusing on innovation, climate change, and energy. He co-founded several environmental organizations and launched the first consumer-facing climate software company. His book, Lean Startups for Social Change: The Revolutionary Path to Big Impact, was published in 2016. Presently, Gelobter serves as a senior advisor at Google X, a board member of Ceres and New Energy Nexus, and co-chair of the Green Leadership Trust.