Bill Gentry

Assistant Director - Executive Programs at UNC Chapel Hill / Gillings School of Global Public Health | Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States

About Bill Gentry

Bill Gentry serves as an Assistant Professor and Director of the Disaster Management Certificate Program at the Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. With a robust background in public health and disaster management, he is dedicated to equipping students with the essential skills needed to navigate complex emergency situations. Under his leadership, the Community Preparedness and Disaster Management (CPDM) program has flourished, offering a comprehensive one-year professional certificate that is delivered online biannually, allowing for flexibility and accessibility for working professionals.

Bill’s commitment to student advocacy and mentorship is evident in his approach to program management. He employs effective coaching and delegation strategies to foster a collaborative learning environment, where students can thrive and develop their leadership capabilities. His philosophy on managing executive certificate programs emphasizes the importance of practical, hands-on experiences that prepare students to tackle real-world challenges in public health and disaster response.

Currently, the Department is poised for growth with the anticipated launch of a Master of Science in Disaster Management, pending budget approval. This initiative reflects Bill’s vision for expanding educational opportunities in the field, ensuring that future leaders are well-prepared to address the complexities of disaster preparedness and response. With expertise in program evaluation, incident command, and qualitative research, Bill Gentry is not only shaping the next generation of public health professionals but also contributing significantly to the advancement of disaster management practices on a national scale. His work exemplifies a strong commitment to enhancing community resilience and public safety through education and strategic leadership.

Bill Gentry Work