Walae Hayek is a first generation Arab American and Boston native who is passionate about improving health systems and building and bridging between communities and resources.

As MHA’s Manager of Healthcare Policy, Walae focuses on statewide behavioral healthcare delivery. She has over six years of experience in healthcare, academia, research, and grassroots advocacy. Walae’s previous experience includes serving in an advisory capacity for local public health organizations and collaboratives focusing on resources for BIPOC and historically marginalized peoples.

Walae is a proud Board Member of the West End House Boys and Girls Club and Steering Committee member of the Allston Brighton Health Collaborative. They’ve also been invited to speaking engagements at local school, universities, and community organizations.

Walae holds a BSc in Behavioral Neuroscience from Tufts University and an MPH in Community Assessment and Program Development with a focus in Health Policy from Boston University School of Public Health.