Dr. Brauer has served as the Health Ministries Director for the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists since 2016.   She holds a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree in Nutrition from Loma Linda University School of Public Health and a Master of Health Science (MHS) in Epidemiology from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.  She previously worked at the Seventh-day Adventist Guam Clinic as wellness director and dietitian, and at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health as a senior research assistant.  In 2023, she was recognized as one of 15 “Women of Faith on the Frontlines” by the US Department of Health and Human Services.

As a public health epidemiologist, her role at the NAD includes producing health content on a variety of topics, championing the work of health professionals, training lay members, providing health resources and mentorship for college students, advising NAD administrators on health-related issues, facilitating collaboration among Adventist organizations, and communicating with governmental leaders on the Adventist Church’s health initiatives.  Dr. Brauer believes that healthy living should be practical, understandable, and enjoyable for everyone.  She believes that comprehensive health work includes physical, mental, social, and spiritual wellbeing, and that all of us have a vital part to play in ministering hope and wholeness to our communities.

She enjoys going on adventures with her husband Jonathan and puppy Ella, coming up with new recipes, working on craft projects, teaching, brainstorming about ministry, and playing with her nieces and nephews.

Franklin joined the Health Ministries team after serving for several years with other NAD Departments.  He also provides assistance to the Personal Ministries/Sabbath School and Prayer Ministries at the NAD.  His background is in Biology, with a minor in Chemistry.  He is an avid tennis player and enjoys spending time with his lovely wife and precious son.