Serving on the Evaluation and Research team, our January Employee Spotlight recipient supports Karna projects with her qualitative research and technical assistance skills. And last year, she contributed significantly all while planning her wedding! As she and her husband David continue settling into the newlywed life, we want to shine a light on Torey Repetski Hartman. Learn more about her journey into public health research, how she experiences life outside of work, and send well wishes Mr. & Mrs. Hartman!
Q: What is your position and what do you do?
I started with Karna in February 2021 as a Public Health Analyst on the Vaccine Confidence and Education Support contract. I supported the Karna team by conducting qualitative research, developing literature reviews, and writing reports. Since then, I have been involved with several contracts providing research support, technical assistance, and data management.
Q: What has been your favorite project at Karna and why?
This is tough because they are all so different. Despite the challenging nature of the GAVI project, it was one of my favorites because of the comradery experienced by our team. It was also incredible to be involved in hosting a virtual global vaccine training that took place across several times zones.
Q: What have you gained from working at Karna?
I come from a non-profit background but worked towards my MPH throughout that time in my career because I knew I wanted to go into public health research. Karna is my first predominantly research-focused job, so it has allowed me to utilize and hone the skills I worked on during grad school. Specifically, Karna has taught me that I really enjoy qualitative research and always look forward to projects where I can use that skill.
Q: What do you do to stay fit/healthy?
I enjoy running outside, especially when the weather gets cooler, and I try to fit in weighted workouts a few times a week. I use an app called Aaptiv for my weight workouts, so I don’t have to spend time planning what I’m going to do. The less time I have to think about my workout, the more likely it will actually get done. David and I also enjoy cooking, so we try to cook the majority of our meals at home, so we have more control over portions and ingredients.
Q: Do you have a tip for coping with stress?
Running always helps me feel better when I’m moderately stressed and if I’m encountering a bigger stressor, I will work with a therapist. I’ve learned breathing techniques in therapy that are important to managing my anxiety.
Q: Where is your hometown?
I’m from Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, 30 minutes north of Philadelphia.
Q: What did you want to be growing up?
A marine biologist.
Q: You are happiest when?
I’m happiest when our house is clean, and I’m cozied up reading a book.
Q: What is something most people do not know about you?
With no prior experience, I joined a competitive rowing team when I studied abroad in England during undergrad. It’s one of my favorite life decisions!
Q: Anything you would like to add or say to help your colleagues and clients know you a little better?
I like helping people brainstorm and edit their work, so if any of my colleagues need help with a project or would like someone to read something they wrote, I’ll always make time to support them!