Christine Gentry
Senior Law and Policy Analyst
Phone: 410-706-5729
Email: christine.gentry@umaryland.edu
Areas of Expertise: State and local emergency management | Exercise and Training / Integrated Preparedness Planning | Planning | Policy Development | Hazard Mitigation | Resilience | Emergency Operations | Logistics | Client management | Program and project management | Strategic planning and partnerships
Certifications and Affiliations: Maryland State Bar, admitted 2013 | Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Management, 2023, University of Maryland Global Campus
Education: MPH, 2017, University of Maryland College Park | D., 2013, University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law | A. in Literature and History, 2010, Wells College
About Christine
In law school, I set my sights on a career in health law and policy, and after graduating and passing the bar, I began practicing part-time at a Baltimore firm while exploring full-time opportunities. When I discovered a role at a local public health department through the Center, it felt like a natural step toward my goal—but once I immersed myself in public health emergency preparedness and emergency management, I was hooked. Starting in a small office allowed me to dive into every aspect of emergency planning, from incident management and project coordination to training, continuity planning, and logistics. I led full-scale exercises with over 150 participants, designed online learning courses, and handled everything from strategic planning to warehouse cleanouts. One of the most impactful experiences of my career at CHHS was serving as Planning Chief for Maryland’s Opioid Operational Command Center (OOCC), an innovative initiative launched under Governor Hogan to combat the opioid crisis. In that role, I had the privilege of hearing powerful personal stories, working alongside passionate advocates and government partners, and contributing to life-saving solutions. What I love most about working at CHHS is the people—their passion, commitment, and shared drive to serve our communities. Every day, I’m inspired by my colleagues’ diverse expertise and our collective dedication to making a meaningful difference.
What is your working style?
My working style is relationship-centered and solution-driven. Effective problem-solving and successful project management hinge on strong connections—whether it’s fostering collaboration within a team, engaging stakeholders, or building trust with partners. I approach challenges by listening, developing a common understanding of the end goal or deliverable, and leveraging the strengths of those around me to develop meaningful solutions. Cultivating relationships creates an environment where ideas flow, obstacles are tackled collectively, and projects move forward with efficiency and impact.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
Everything outdoors – camping and backpacking, kayaking, gardening, and simply reading a good book in the sun.
What advice would you give to someone starting in your field?
Nurture a willingness to learn and try new things – whether it’s a new approach at work or a new cuisine. As emergencies evolve, so must we. Proceduralism and complacency prevent emergency managers from reaching their full potential, responding effectively to crises, and driving innovation in an evolving world.
