Graduate Spotlight: Daniel Tuyisenge, PhD, MS, MA, BS
BH WELL celebrates Dr. Daniel Tuyisenge for completing his PhD in Statistics from the University of Kentucky. He successfully defended his dissertation, “Application of Tolerance Intervals for Applied Survey Data Analysis” on April 22. Throughout his doctoral journey, Dr. Tuyisenge has combined a strong foundation in mathematics with a growing passion for applied research, teaching, and interdisciplinary collaboration. His work reflects a commitment to using data to better understand complex challenges and to communicate those insights in clear, meaningful ways. In addition to his PhD, Dr. Tuyisenge holds a master’s in statistics, master's in actuarial science, and a bachelors in mathematics and physics. BH WELL Executive Director, Dr. Zim Okoli, shares, “Daniel’s diligence in working with the team and gentle way of tackling complex analyses are some of the strengths that he has brought to the team. We are so grateful for all his contributions and wish him the best in the bright career he has ahead of him.”
In the Q&A below, Dr. Tuyisenge shares what led him to statistics, the passions he developed at UK, and how his experience with BH WELL shaped his academic and professional growth.
Why did you choose to pursue a PhD in statistics?
Dr. Tuyisenge: I did not initially plan to study statistics. During my master’s degree in actuarial science, I began to realize that the parts I enjoyed most were the statistical ones. I was drawn to how statistics connects theory to real data and helps answer practical questions. After graduating, I taught high school mathematics, which was a very meaningful experience and strengthened my ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. At the same time, I found myself wanting to engage more deeply with the applied side of mathematics, especially in working with data and real-world problems.
Given my background in mathematics and my growing interest in application, pursuing statistics felt like a natural next step. It allows me to combine analytical thinking with practical impact while also aligning with my interest in teaching. I see this field as one where I can both contribute to solving meaningful problems and continue mentoring and educating others. That combination is what ultimately motivated me to pursue this degree.
What passions have you developed during your time at UK?
Dr. Tuyisenge: During my time at the University of Kentucky, I developed a strong passion for both research and collaboration while continuing to grow in my commitment to teaching. Before coming to UK, I was curious about academic research but saw it as something distant and overly complex. Through my training and experiences here, I learned how to conduct research in a structured way, and I found that I genuinely enjoy the process of asking questions and working toward solutions. At the same time, collaboration became very important to me because it allows me to apply my statistical skills to real problems and learn from people in other disciplines. Alongside that, I had the opportunity to teach undergraduate courses, which has remained one of the most rewarding parts of my experience. I especially enjoy incorporating applied activities that help students connect statistical concepts to real-world situations, making the material more meaningful and engaging.
What projects have you worked on while with BH WELL?
Dr. Tuyisenge: I serve as the Lead Statistician on the project “the effect of peer support service utilization on inpatient, outpatient, and emergency visits among Medicaid beneficiaries with mental illnesses.” In this role, I focus on statistical analysis and writing, including analyzing data and interpreting results.
Additionally, I serve as a supporting statistician, where I assist with writing, editing, and validation for the following projects:
- Does telehealth use reduce psychiatric hospitalization and improve psychiatric outpatient appointment keeping among individuals with a mental illness?
- Telehealth for Medicaid beneficiaries with mental illness
Which project was your favorite to work on?
Dr. Tuyisenge: My favorite project to work on has been the "Effect of peer support service utilization on inpatient, outpatient, and emergency visits among Medicaid beneficiaries with mental illnesses".
What has being part of the BH WELL team meant to you?
Dr. Tuyisenge: Being part of the BH WELL team has been a very meaningful experience for me, both academically and professionally. During my time with the team, I gained a deeper understanding of mental health as a pressing issue in the United States, and I also learned how approaches like telehealth can play an important role in supporting patients with mental illness. What I especially appreciated about BH WELL is that it felt like a true collaborative workspace, where there was a strong emphasis on developing practical skills, particularly in writing. Working with Dr. Okoli helped me improve my writing significantly, as I learned effective strategies for communicating research clearly and professionally.
What’s next for you?
Dr. Tuyisenge: After completing my PhD, I will work as a full-time instructor at the University of Kentucky for a year while continuing to build my teaching and research experience. Then, I will pursue a long-term academic position.
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Please join BH WELL in congratulating Dr. Tuyisenge on this outstanding achievement. As he begins his next chapter as a full-time instructor and continues to grow as both a researcher and educator, his commitment to teaching, collaboration, and clear communication positions him well for a successful and influential career in academia.