Ryan Sutherland exemplifies the power of student leadership to foster meaningful partnerships between Yale and the New Haven community. As a student at the Yale School of Public Health and now the School of Medicine, Ryan has dedicated his academic and volunteer efforts to advancing health equity for New Haven’s most underserved residents, including individuals who are unhoused, undocumented, or uninsured. Throughout his time at Yale, Ryan has led and collaborated on numerous initiatives that directly benefit the New Haven community. As a coordinator for the Neighborhood Health Project (NHP)—a student-run clinic offering health screenings and referrals—Ryan has helped connect hundreds of New Haven residents to critical health services.
Under his leadership, NHP hosted its most successful fundraiser to date, raising over $5,000 for clinical supplies. He also helped create the inaugural Health and Wellness Village at New Haven Pride, a collaborative effort that brought together local organizations to promote community health and well-being. Ryan’s work with the HAVEN Free Clinic and as a founder of the Community Health Pantry initiative further reflects his commitment to addressing social determinants of health in partnership with community members. Through these programs, he has helped expand access to essential health and hygiene supplies while mobilizing Yale students to engage in service grounded in respect, trust, and collaboration.
As Executive Director of the New Haven PAUSE Project, Ryan leads the only local organization dedicated to providing shoes, socks, and hygiene kits to individuals experiencing homelessness. What began as a small effort has grown into a citywide initiative, collecting more than $120,000 in donated goods, including over 10,000 pairs of socks and 2,000 pairs of shoes. PAUSE now partners with local health professionals to provide direct foot care and has collaborated with Macy’s to distribute over 400 new winter coats.
For his outstanding leadership in strengthening Yale–New Haven partnerships and advancing community health, Economic Development Administrator Michael Piscitelli and President Maurie McInnis present Ryan Sutherland with a Graduate Student Ivy Award.