Warda El Akkari, MPH

Warda received a Bachelor’s of Science in Animal Science and Biology from Rutgers University in 2016. She has worked as a veterinary assistant for 8 years and is currently completing schooling to become a Certified Veterinary Technician.

Her time in the field has allowed her to gain invaluable hands-on experience in animal handling, medical procedures, and client communication. This experience has also fostered her ability to communicate effectively with both clients and fellow professionals, ensuring a high standard of care.

She started at Merck Animal Health as a Pharmacovigilance Specialist in 2018, supporting our customers across the nation. Throughout her academic and professional journey, she has developed a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness between human, animal, and environmental health. This led her to pursue a Master’s in Public Health, where she gained insight into the importance of One Health.

Warda’s background provides her with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities related to One Health efforts. She has participated in various international animal welfare projects including Belize, Thailand, India, and Morocco. She is also an active volunteer for the Street Dog Coalition, working as a veterinary assistant.

In her spare time, Warda is an avid cook, a lover of (non-toxic!) houseplants, and enjoys spending time with her 2 rescued black cats.