Dr. John Hollier, an Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, is a pediatric gastroenterologist passionate about optimizing pediatric healthcare delivery systems to improve health outcomes. Dr. Hollier was also born and raised in Houston and then attended Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, Louisiana, a historically black college and university (HBCU). HBCUs were established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to provide more opportunities for African Americans to attain higher education. His undergraduate education helped shape his lens on community participation and spurred his interest in medicine, science, and technology. After completing his formal medical training, he attained a public health degree to learn how researchers can improve community health. Dr. Hollier is currently using mobile health technologies to increase pediatric patients’ access to evidence-based treatments for disorders of gut-brain interaction. He has served on the NASPGHAN Technology Committee and the Diversity Special Interest Group. In his downtime, Dr. Hollier enjoys traveling with his family and watching football.
Full Name: John M. Hollier, MD, MS, MPH
Current position and institution: Assistant Professor, Baylor College of Medicine
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Favorite GI disease: That is a challenging prompt to answer, but it is a close tie between disorders of gut-brain interaction, functional constipation, and gastroparesis.
Hobbies: I enjoy traveling with my family and attending local festivals (including the rodeo) and restaurants. I also like building structures out of blocks with my son and watching football.
Favorite Vacation Spot: Jamaica is a great place to kick up my feet and relax. The people there are hospitable, the music is inspirational, and the beaches are beautiful. Having jerk chicken fresh off the grill is so delectable. I must get back there soon.
Favorite Activist: John Lewis was a civil rights leader and longstanding US House of Representatives congressman. He inspired many not to be afraid to “get in good trouble, necessary trouble” when protesting unjust laws and policies. His legacy lives on, and he will be missed.
Book You Recommend: My academic choice is Dissemination and Implementation Research in Health: Translating Science to Practice by Ross Brownson, Graham A. Colditz, and Enola K. Proctor. This book helped me realize that implementation science can improve healthcare delivery systems and patient care, especially for vulnerable and marginalized patients.
Best Career Advice You’ve Received: I am interested in multidisciplinary research initiatives. A wise mentor advised me to always surround myself with intelligent thinkers to tackle the problems of today so we can make a better tomorrow.
