A distinguished leader in public health, her work has been recognized with numerous honors for excellence in research, advocacy, and mentorship. From early career fellowships to prestigious national awards, these accolades highlight her unwavering commitment to advancing maternal and child health, health equity, and public health leadership.

Honored by esteemed organizations across academia, research, and advocacy, her contributions reflect a lifelong dedication to shaping public health policy, mentoring future leaders, and improving health outcomes for marginalized communities.

    • Senior Maternal and Child Health Fellow, American Public Health Association (2009)

    • Student Fellowship, Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs (2009)

    • Goldhaber Travel Award, University of Maryland College Park (2009)

    • Willie Lawson Memorial Award, National Black Graduate Students Association (2010)

    • Minority Scholars Award, AcademyHealth (2010)

    • Ernest E. Just Keynote Lecture and Prize, Medical University of South Carolina and the Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture (2014)

    • John C. MacQueen Lecture Award, Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs (2022)

    • Partners Award, Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies (2019)

    • Young Professionals Award, Maternal and Child Health Section, American Public Health Association (2019)

    • FDR Humanitarian of the Year Award, March of Dimes Massachusetts (2023)

    • Top 40 Under 40 Leaders in Healthcare, National Minority Quality Forum (2020)

Honors & Awards

Honors & Awards

In March 2025, Dr. Onukagha was recognized by the Mayor’s Office of Women’s Advancement during Women’s History Month for her contributions to advancing health equity and championing community-led public health strategies. Her work continues to uplift marginalized voices and shape a more equitable future.