Representative Paul Takac: MUIH Alumnus Championing Wellness and Community Health
Representative Paul Takac is not only an esteemed alumnus of Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) but also a fervent advocate for the well-being of his constituents in Centre County and beyond. His Master of Science in Nutrition and Integrative Health from MUIH, a distinguished program recognized by the ACNPE, reveals his unwavering dedication to holistic health and evidence-based methodologies.
Takac began his academic journey at the University at Buffalo, graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology in 1987. His studies deepened his appreciation for community and human behavior. Later, at Southern Methodist University (1987-1991), he earned a Master of Arts in Archaeology/Anthropology, equipping him with insights that would greatly benefit his public service career.
However, it was his transition to Maryland University of Integrative Health that added a fresh dimension to his service portfolio. From 2015 to 2018, Takac pursued a Master of Science in Nutrition and Integrative Health. At MUIH, he not only acquired an MS in nutrition but also embraced the broader philosophy of integrative health. This holistic perspective recognizes that well-being is a confluence of physical health, mental resilience, and community vitality. “I really enjoyed my time at MUIH. I still carry a lot of the positive interactions and what I learned. It definitely helped to make me a better person and in a way, a better legislator,” Takac fondly recalls.
As Takac neared the culmination of his MUIH journey, his path saw an unexpected twist. “The chance to run for public office sort of derailed me from continuing my clinical work and finishing my CNS hours,” he admits. But this detour was not without purpose. He elucidates, “I’ve always believed that when done well, government can be a force for good. I really like the work of building coalitions of people and finding ways to best serve my community.”
Representative Takac’s public service initiatives emanate from his robust academic mosaic. He brilliantly marries the anthropological cognizance of societal needs with the invaluable nutritional wisdom from MUIH. This synergy is palpable in his endeavors that underscore community health, seeking to strike a balance between historical values and present-day health predicaments.
As he navigates the intricate maze of politics, Takac remains a beacon for healthcare reforms, affirming, “I’ve always enjoyed finding ways to help people. My experience with MUIH really gave me a good perspective in terms of connecting with people in a real way and finding balance.” His stances on clean energy jobs, the opioid crisis, and education & workforce development are testament to his commitment.
To budding MUIH graduates, Takac offers this advice: “It sounds cliché, but be the change you want to see. Just get involved. A lot of people overlook local government but that’s where most of the decisions that affect people’s lives take place.”
Representative Paul Takac’s journey is a shining example of how MUIH’s teachings can be woven into larger community tapestries, creating policies that champion the holistic well-being of all residents. It stands as a testament to the university’s mission and an inspiration to current and future students alike.