About Us

The Mayor's Healthy City Initiative (MHCI), also known as HealthyBR, grew from a group of community partners that came together to focus on promoting healthy living in Baton Rouge. We are dedicated to making Baton Rouge a healthier place for all.

Our Mission

To foster a movement based on Communication, Coordination, and Collaboration that promotes a better and healthier life for all people in the great city of Baton Rouge.

Our Vision

Inspiring a healthier Baton Rouge for all.

Our Priorities

Healthy Living

Maternal & Child Health

Community Health

Healthy Eating

Geaux Get Healthy

Meet Our Executive Director:
Hope Hickerson, PhD

Hope Hickerson is the Executive Director of HealthyBR, Mayor Sharon Broom’s Healthy City Initiative. With nearly two decades in the public health sector, Dr. Hickerson’s career spans roles in university health centers, healthcare organizations, and public health initiatives. She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in health education and promotion from East Carolina University and a Master’s in Counseling and a Ph.D. in Media & Public Affairs with a focus in health communication, both from Louisiana State University.

Hope was raised in North Carolina and ultimately landed in Baton Rouge, where she met her husband and had two beautiful children. According to Mayor Sharon Broome, “Hope Hickerson's experience, combined with her passion for public health and her commitment to our community, makes her the ideal leader of HealthyBR.” The core mission of HealthyBR is to create a movement grounded in communication, coordination, and collaboration, all in the pursuit of promoting a healthier life for everyone in Baton Rouge.