DALLAS – Conference USA selected Dr. Noël C. Barengo, Associate Professor of Epidemiology in FIU’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, as the 2025 CUSA Professor of the Year, voted on by the member institution’s provosts.
 
A key figure in advancing chronic disease prevention efforts through large-scale research collaborations, Dr. Barengo’s research has played a vital role in shaping global public health strategies and policies, particularly in the prevention of chronic diseases.
 
Dr. Barengo was chosen from a group of 10 Faculty Achievement Award winners. The awards program was established by the league’s presidents and chancellors to recognize exceptional contributions in teaching, research and service.
 
“Dr. Noël C. Barengo exemplifies a profound dedication to teaching, characterized by his extensive experience, global impact, and unwavering commitment to student success” FIU Executive Vice President and Provost said. “His teaching philosophy not only imparts knowledge but also mentors and inspires students, preparing them to tackle global health challenges effectively.  Dr. Barengo’s collaborations, dedication to mentorship, and significant research contributions represents the qualities celebrated by this honor.”
 
Dr. Barengo has authored more than 170 peer-reviewed publications, with nearly half of his work co-authored by students he has mentored. His research has earned more than 16,000 citations, with an H-index ranging from 26 to 38, reflecting its global impact. He has collaborated extensively with national and international institutions, contributing to cross-border epidemiological studies and policy-informing health initiatives.
 
As an educator, Dr. Barengo has developed and taught courses in research methodology, clinical epidemiology and evidence-based medicine. He has mentored students at all academic levels, and many have presented at leading conferences like the American Public Health Association (APHA) Annual Meeting and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Scientific Sessions.
 
In addition to teaching and research, Dr. Barengo has held key leadership roles at FIU, serving as Chair of the Faculty Senate and as a member of the Board of Trustees, where he has contributed to faculty development and institutional policy. His national service includes leadership roles in APHA, where he chaired the Physical Activity Section and served on the Science Board, and in the ADA’s Public Health & Epidemiology Interest Group.
 
Internationally, Dr. Barengo has been influential in chronic disease surveillance through his leadership in America’s Network for Chronic Disease Surveillance (AMNET), where he served as President and is now Vice-President. He has worked closely with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to strengthen public health research and policy implementation across Latin America.
 
Dr. Barengo’s contributions have been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Wade Hampton Frost Lectureship Award (APHA), the FIU Top Scholar Award, and the Bernard Choi Award from AMNET. He also serves in editorial roles for prominent medical journals, ensuring the dissemination of high-quality scientific research.