Quest for Education Leads to Love
Couples Share Stories of How They Met Through the Master of Public Health Program
Three couples reflect as Valentine’s Day nears on the serendipitous beginnings of their love stories — stories that all began within the halls of Touro University California’s Master of Public Health program.
Their journeys are a testament to the magic that can unfold when minds meet, passions align, and hearts find their way amid the rigorous pursuit of an advanced degree.
These couples found more than just academic success — they found partners, all bound by a shared commitment to service and community.
Genesis Fabian and Sammy Puebla
Two students found a spark during the pandemic that would transcend virtual classrooms.
Genesis Fabian (MPH Class of 2022) and Sammy Puebla (MPH Class of 2022) met via Zoom in August 2020. Although they were separated by screens, their connection strengthened during classes and group projects.
“Our friendship really blossomed during that time, and we got to know each other pretty well,” Genesis recalled, as they spoke over Zoom from different parts of the state.
What began as a connection rooted in collaboration soon turned into something deeper as their work together continued with the Youth in Action for Health Equity program, leading to time serving at a community event.
“After the event ended, we were both very hungry, so we got pizza and wings together and we really enjoyed ourselves as Soulja Boy was playing in the background, and that’s kind of where the sparks started,” Sammy said.
It wasn’t long before Sammy reached out to Genesis via Instagram, and a friendship that began in the virtual world blossomed into something more tangible.
Genesis serves with a home health company in the Los Angeles area as a Project Lead for the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) program. Sammy serves as a Program Manager with Roots Community Health, overseeing the Bay Area organization’s youth programs.
Diana De Vore and Matthew Musselman
The foundation of love for Dr. Diana De Vore (Dual PharmD-MPH Class of 2018) and Dr. Matthew Musselman (Dual DO-MPH Class of 2020) was built during the long study sessions that are the hallmark of the MPH journey.
Their paths first crossed in the summer of 2015 as they navigated the demanding MPH coursework alongside their respective doctoral programs. With the intense pressure of preparation for block exams, the hours spent in the study halls of Wilderman Hall became an unlikely setting for the start of their love story.
Diana shared her sandwiches with Matt during those long nights of studying, Matt recalled of their humble beginnings. Their camaraderie grew, and with it, an enduring connection was formed.
Their shared passion for learning and service laid the groundwork for what would become a lifelong partnership.
Diana and Matt sealed their bond in marriage in September 2020, and today, they are proud parents to their son, Malakai Patricio Musselman.
Their story is a reminder that even amid stress and deadlines, love can grow quietly but steadily — nourished by shared moments of care and the unspoken support found in a fellow student who understands the journey.
Diana is a Clinical Pharmacist with Kaiser Permanente. Matt is a Family Physician with Kaiser Permanente.
Janis Ho and Andrew Ha
Janis Ho (MPH Class of 2020) and Andrew Ha (MPH Class of 2019) first met in the office of Dr. Annette Aalborg as they both prepared to join the Youth in Action program.
Janis was just beginning her MPH journey, and Andrew was nearing the end of his. Yet, as they walked down the stairs of Harter Way after their initial meeting, something between them clicked.
The rest, as they say, is history — though Andrew would never forget the playful twist that came early in their relationship.
“When we first started dating, Janis invited me to a haunted house on Mare Island,” Andrew said. “Janis enjoys haunted houses, and I don’t like scary things, but I didn’t want to miss the chance of spending time with Janis, so I fearfully agreed. She quickly realized I was not a fan of haunted houses. I survived, but we don’t do very many haunted houses anymore.”
Their relationship continued to grow, filled with shared moments that have led to a beautiful new chapter: their wedding in June 2024. As they reflect on their early days, they both agree the joy and love they found through their time at Touro is something they carry with them — together, as a team.
Janis is a Health Program Specialist with the Aging and Disability Resource Connection Bureau at the California Department of Aging. Andrew is a Project Manager for the Medi-Cal Mobile Crisis Training and Technical Assistance Center at the Center for Applied Research Solutions.
Love Blossoms in Unexpected Places
These three couples, with their stories of love that began in classrooms and study halls, are a testament to the lasting connections that can form when people unite for a greater cause.
Their love, much like their work in public health, is rooted in service, empathy, and a desire to make a difference.
Whether it's sharing sandwiches in study halls, bonding over Zoom, or facing haunted houses together, these couples prove that sometimes, the most unexpected places can lead to the most beautiful beginnings.