Brooke Hiltz, JD, is a Research Project Manager with the University of Kentucky.  Most recently, Brooke co-coordinated community engagement efforts for the NIDA-funded HEALing Community Study (HCS) in Kentucky (KY), an ambitious $87 million, community-engaged study to reduce opioid overdose deaths in 67 communities (16 counties in Kentucky, including 7 in Appalachian KY). In that role Brooke collaboratively oversaw more than 20 staff and the establishment of 16 community coalitions, each with representation from the criminal legal system and behavioral health sector among others. Additionally, Brooke is currently managing a NIDA-funded study that is examining changes in the drug market in Appalachian KY through qualitative interviews with law enforcement, harm reduction staff, and persons involved in the illicit drug market. Before joining UK, Brooke worked in higher education for 18 years, and prior to that served as an Assistant Commonwealth Attorney (felony prosecutor) for two Northern KY counties, requiring daily interaction with law enforcement and the judicial system. In all her professional endeavors, Brooke has performed extensive community engagement, working directly with corporate, government, and non-profit entities and individuals working in those settings.