Cherlie Magny-Normilus

Faculty

Cherlie Magny-Normilus headshot

Cherlie Magny-Normilus

FNP-BC FNYAM PhD

1 212 998 5394

433 First Ave
New York, NY 10010
United States

Cherlie Magny-Normilus, PhD, FNP-BC, FNYAM is an assistant professor at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, focusing her research and public health efforts on eliminating health disparities among marginalized populations with chronic conditions. Her primary area of research involves developing and testing culturally relevant behavioral models for type 2 diabetes care.

Currently, she is the principal investigator of a five-year K99/R00 Career Development Award from the National Institute of Nursing Research. This grant supports her work examining the societal factors that influence behavior change and disease management among Haitian immigrants with type 2 diabetes. The projects include the development of "An Sante ak Dyabèt" (ASAD) or "Let’s Live Healthy with Diabetes" - a culturally-tailored, randomized controlled trial designed to improve type 2 diabetes self-management and decrease T2D-related complications among adult Haitian immigrants.

Magny-Normilus' additional interdisciplinary scholarship interests include behavioral outcomes of self-management interventions, migration and immigrant health, social determinants of health, and community-based participatory research approaches.

Prior to joining the faculty at NYU Meyers, she was an assistant professor at the Boston College Connell School of Nursing, where she initially served as a Research Scholar. She also held a faculty position at Regis College. As director of policy and advocacy for the Regis College Haiti Project-International Nurse Faculty Partnership, she played an instrumental role in improving healthcare in Haiti by upgrading nursing education to a university-based master's level.

Magny-Normilus is a Fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine and has received several honors and awards. She holds a PhD from the University of Massachusetts Lowell, an MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Regis College, a BSN from Curry College, and an ASN from the Brockton Hospital School of Nursing. She also held a T-32 Postdoctoral Fellowship from the Yale School of Nursing.

PhD, University of Massachusetts Lowell
MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner, Regis College
BSN, Curry College
ASN, Brockton Hospital School of Nursing

Underserved populations

American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
American Diabetes Association
Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists
American Nurses Association
American Public Health Association
Eastern Nursing Research Society
National Black Nurses Association – Lifetime Member
New England Black Nurses Association (NERBNA)
Sigma Theta Tau International
Transcultural Nursing Society

Academic Early Career Scholarship Award, Massachusetts Association of Colleges of Nursing (2024)
Excellence in Nursing Research Award, New England Black Nurses Association, Inc (2023)
Citation for Unwavering Commitment to Health Care, City of Boston (2023)
Fellow, New York Academy of Medicine (2022)
Health Disparities Research Institute Scholar, National Institute on Minority Health (2020)
Humanitarian Award, Aesclepius Medical Society (AMS) (2019)
PhD Program Award, University of Massachusetts Lowell Solomont School of Nursing (2018)
Dean’s Award, University of Massachusetts Lowell Solomont School of Nursing (2018)
Dedication and Contributions to the Advancement of Nursing Education throughout Haiti Haitian Government Office of the Ministry of Haitians Living Abroad (2016)
Changemakers, Inducted to the Haitian Roundtable’s 1804 List of Changemakers (2015)
Excellence in Nursing Leadership Award, New England Regional Black Nurse Association, Inc (2014)
Volunteerism and Service, Nurse.com Regional GEM Awards Program Finalist (2014)
Graduate Student Leadership Award, Regis College Graduate (2011)
Ujima Award, Brigham and Women’s Hospital (2011)

Essential elements and outcomes of psychological safety in the healthcare practice setting: A systematic review

LaPlante, R. D., Ponte, P. R., & Magny-Normilus, C. (2025). Applied Nursing Research, 83. 10.1016/j.apnr.2025.151946
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Psychological safety is considered an essential component of highly effective teamwork in organizations, including healthcare organizations. This systematic review examines essential elements and outcomes of psychological safety in healthcare practice teams to determine best practices for implementing psychological safety. Method: A systematic literature review of published studies that described psychological safety as a variable in healthcare practice settings was conducted. Articles were included if they were published in English, peer reviewed, included nurses or physicians either individually or as part of a team, incorporated psychological safety, presented workforce or patient outcomes, and published in the past 10 years. Results: Out of 220 articles, 30 met the inclusion criteria. This review identifies five essential elements and outcomes of psychological safety in healthcare. Conclusion: This systematic review corroborates the importance of psychological safety to healthcare teams. Directing resources toward ensuring the implementation and enhancement of psychological safety in healthcare teams would improve the likelihood of reliable, safe, and high-quality healthcare delivery.

Exploring Perspectives and Challenges to Type 2 Diabetes Self-management in Haitian American Immigrants in the COVID-19 Era: An Emic View

Magny-Normilus, C., Whittemore, R., Schnipper, J., & Grey, M. (2025). Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities. 10.1007/s40615-025-02309-9
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Racial and ethnic minorities experience a disproportionate burden of the type 2 diabetes (T2D) and are at a 2 to 5 times higher risk of developing macrovascular disease. The purpose of the study was to describe the perspectives of Haitian American immigrants’ challenges to effective T2D self-management. Methods: Utilizing a descriptive qualitative approach, purposive sampling was employed to recruit a subgroup of adult Haitian American immigrants from a parent cross-sectional study. Content analysis was used to identify themes describing participant perspectives. Lincoln and Guba’s four criteria to assess the trustworthiness and ensure the rigor of the study were applied. Results: A total of 36 participants were enrolled, with 54% being male, and age ranged from 34 to 63 years. The majority were married, and 77% reported using metformin. Three facilitators and two barriers to their T2D self-management were found. Facilitators included (1) family and social support, (2) optimism and hope, and (3) novel devices. Barriers included (1) psychosocial and (2) environmental factors. Discussion: The facilitators underscore the pivotal role of close familial relationships, communal influence, and the potential utility of innovative devices like continuous glucose monitoring in enhancing T2D management, whereas the barriers delineate the unique challenges posed by discrimination, lack of provider/client decision-making and communication, the compounding effects of COVID-19, concerns about safety, mistrust in healthcare systems, and financial constraints, which collectively exacerbate the complexities of ineffective T2D management. Collaboration between clinicians, clients, and policymakers is imperative to emphasize the urgent necessity for a multifaceted approach in addressing the complex healthcare landscape of Haitian American immigrants managing T2D in the United States.

Associations Between Food Security and Social Determinants of Health with Dietary Intakes–A Pilot Study

Diallo, A., Bolden, T., Karimian, S., Russell, S., Elswick, R. K., Magny-Normilus, C., Waters, L., Arcan, C., Tucker, K. L., & Talegawkar, S. A. (2024). Journal of Hunger and Environmental Nutrition, 19(6), 1042-1051. 10.1080/19320248.2023.2266687
Abstract
Abstract
Food insecurity is a major social determinant of health (SDH). However, further research is needed on the associations between SDH and diet among individuals living in urban food deserts. We designed a pilot study to examine the associations between diet and seven measures of SDH. Forty-five participants were enrolled in the study and were scheduled for an in-person or telephone interview. Food insecurity was significantly associated with greater intakes of fast food and refined grains. Employment was significantly associated with higher intake of alcohol. Findings from this pilot study confirm the importance of examining SDH in relation to diet.

Food insecurity and diabetes management among adults of African descent: A systematic review

Magny-Normilus, C., Luppino, F., Lyons, K., Luu, J., & Taylor, J. Y. (2024). Diabetic Medicine, 41(10). 10.1111/dme.15398
Abstract
Abstract
Aims: This systematic review explores the established causal link between food insecurity and cardiometabolic conditions among adults of African descent. Specifically, this study examined the relationship between food insecurity and the management of type 2 diabetes, highlighting the prevalence of food insecurity among individuals of African descent with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Original English papers were meticulously searched in databases including PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Medline, Cochrane, Embase and Web of Science. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for quantitative studies and COReQ for qualitative studies were employed to assess biases. Three independent reviewers meticulously evaluated and synthesized results, reaching a consensus. Results: Among the 198 studies identified, 14 met the inclusion criteria for data extraction and analysis, which were conducted independently by three reviewers. The findings indicate that individuals of African descent are more likely to experience food insecurity compared to their White counterparts and are also more prone to diabetes risk factors or the presence of diabetes. Conclusions: This study underscores a higher prevalence of food insecurity and type 2 diabetes among adults of African descent, suggesting that ethnicity and food insecurity play significant roles in diabetes management. Future research should prioritize interventions aimed at reducing these disparities.

A roadmap for social determinants of health and biological nursing research in the National Institute of Nursing Research 2022–2026 Strategic Plan: Optimizing health and advancing health equity using antiracist framing

Taylor, J. Y., Barcelona, V., Magny-Normilus, C., Wright, M. L., Jones-Patten, A., Prescott, L., Potts-Thompson, S., & Santos, H. P. (2023). Nursing Outlook, 71(6). 10.1016/j.outlook.2023.102059
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Health equity is essential for improving the well-being of all individuals and groups, and research remains a critical element for understanding barriers to health equity. While considering how to best support research that acknowledges current health challenges, it is crucial to understand the role of social justice frameworks within health equity research and the contributions of minoritized researchers. Additionally, there should be an increased understanding of the influence of social determinants of health on biological mechanisms. Purpose: Biological health equity research seeks to understand and address health disparities among historically excluded populations. Discussion: While there are examples of studies in this area led by minoritized researchers, some individuals and groups remain understudied due to underfunding. Research within minoritized populations must be prioritized to authentically achieve health equity. Furthermore, there should be increased funding from National Institutes of Health to support minoritized researchers working in this area.

Self-Management and Glycemic Targets in Adult Haitian Immigrants with Type 2 Diabetes: Research Protocol

Magny-Normilus, C., Whittemore, R., Nunez-Smith, M., Lee, C. S., Schnipper, J., Wexler, D., Sanders, J. A., & Grey, M. (2023). Nursing Research, 72(3), 211-217. 10.1097/NNR.0000000000000649
Abstract
Abstract
Background Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic condition affecting more than 34.2 million U.S. adults, and people of African descent have a disproportionate burden. Haitian immigrants' unique cultural and biological factors put them at elevated risk for T2D-related complications. Despite prior research highlighting the success of multimethod approaches to T2D self-management behaviors on glycemic targets, a dearth of studies have used these methods to improve diabetes self-management in this marginalized population. Objectives This article describes a repeated-measures design protocol of a going study about self-management behaviors among adult Haitian immigrants with T2D and characterizing their barriers to T2D self-management. Methods We will enroll 100 Haitian immigrants aged 18-64 years who have lived with T2D for at least 1 year. Using multiple recruitment methods and Research Electronic Data Capture, subjective and objective data on T2D self-management practices, glucose variability via continuous glucose monitor, and a comprehensive view of physical activity via actigraphy are collected. Results Data analysis will follow a two-part approach mirroring the two primary study objectives. Discussion Findings from the study will guide the development and testing of a culturally tailored diabetes self-management education program that will contribute essential information about best practices for this population and break barriers that may impede research on unique individuals and subsequent effective self-management.

Sleep Characteristics in Adults of African Descent at Risk for and with Cardiometabolic Conditions: A Systematic Review

Magny-Normilus, C., Griggs, S., Sanders, J., Hwang, Y., & Longhurst, C. (2023). Endocrines, 4(3), 502-520. 10.3390/endocrines4030036
Abstract
Abstract
The purpose of this systematic review is to synthesize available studies on sleep health characteristics in adults of African descent with or at risk for cardiometabolic conditions. PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched for original research studies on subgroups of African descent with at least one cardiometabolic risk factor. Studies published in English with measured sleep characteristics were included. Studies focused on participants with severe psychiatric illness, night shift workers, or with a pharmacologic sleep treatment focus were excluded. The risk for bias was assessed using the NHLBI 2021 Quality Assessment Tool. Two reviewers independently synthesized the results before reaching a consensus. Out of 340 studies screened, 35 studies were included. There were 631,756 participants with an average age of 44.3 combined (SD = 16.5) (53% female and 22% Black). Disparities in sleep health characteristics and cardiometabolic health among African American adults were found. Markers of poor cardiometabolic health were associated with disordered sleep. While the studies in this review captured key factors, the study measurement methods were inconsistent, and African Caribbean Americans were underrepresented. The studies demonstrated the intersectionality of poor sleep characteristics, cardiometabolic risk factors, and racial/ethnic groupings. Clinicians should consider these findings when providing care.

Glycemic control and management of cardiovascular risk factors among adults with diabetes in the Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network (ECHORN) Cohort Study

Hassan, S., Magny-Normilus, C., Galusha, D., Adams, O. P., Maharaj, R. G., Nazario, C. M., Nunez, M., & Nunez-Smith, M. (2022). Primary Care Diabetes, 16(1), 107-115. 10.1016/j.pcd.2021.06.011
Abstract
Abstract
Aims: To determine the level of glycemic control and cardiovascular (CVD) risk among adults with diabetes in the Eastern Caribbean. Methods: Baseline data from the Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network (ECHORN) Cohort Study (ECS) were used for the analysis. ECS participants were 40 years of age and older, residing in the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Trinidad, or Barbados. Participants completed a survey, physical exam, and laboratory studies. CVD risk was calculated using the Atherosclerotic CVD risk equation. Bivariate analysis followed by multinomial logistic regression was used to assess social and biological factors (education, lifestyle, access to care, medical history) associated with level of glycemic control. Results: Twenty-three percent of participants with diabetes had an HbA1c ≥ 9% (>75 mmol/mol). Participants with diabetes had poorly controlled CVD risk factors: 70.2% had SBP ≥ 130 mmHg, 52.2% had LDL ≥ 100 mg/dl (2.59 mmol/L), and 73.2% had a 10-year CVD risk of more than 10%. Age and education level were significant, independent predictors of glycemic control. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of uncontrolled diabetes among adults in ECS. The high burden of elevated CVD risk explains the premature mortality we see in the region. Strategies are needed to improve glycemic control and CVD risk factor management among individuals with diabetes in the Caribbean.

Implications for Self-Management among African Caribbean Adults with Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health Disorders: A Systematic Review

Magny-Normilus, C., Hassan, S., Sanders, J., Longhurst, C., Lee, C. S., & Jurgens, C. Y. (2022). Biomedicines, 10(11). 10.3390/biomedicines10112735
Abstract
Abstract
Mental health problems are common among individuals suffering from chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Self-management is essential in preventing NCD progression. Mental health problems can impede the ability to self-manage one’s NCDs. The African Caribbean population in the United States suffers from a high burden of NCDs and has unique societal factors that alter disease management. This systematic review aimed to better understand the burden of mental health problems among African Caribbean adults with one or more NCDs and explore the association between mental health disorders and the level of control of NCDs. A literature search was conducted for original research documenting the prevalence of mental illnesses in individuals with NCDs. Data were descriptively summarized. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria. Three themes emerged: (1) prevalence of comorbid mental health problems and chronic NCDs; (2) factors that mitigate or mediate the association between mental health problems and chronic NCDs—(a) factors influencing self-management; (b) association between mental health and NCD outcome studies focused on (b1) risk factors and (b2) protective factors; and (3) varied results. Chronic disease self-management and disease outcomes are influenced by mental problems and the association is mitigated by complex factors in the African Caribbean population.

Racial and Ethnic Cardiometabolic Risk Disparities in the Type 1 Diabetes Exchange Clinic Registry Cohort

Griggs, S., Blanchette, J. E., Hickman, R. L., Magny-Normilus, C., Baskin, R. G., Margevicius, S., & Hatipoglu, B. (2022). Endocrine Practice, 28(12), 1237-1243. 10.1016/j.eprac.2022.10.003
Abstract
Abstract
Objective: To determine whether individuals from a historically underrepresented racial group have a higher cardiometabolic risk than historically represented individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) considering socioeconomic deprivation. Methods: We used the multivariable logistic and linear regression models to examine socioeconomic deprivation (upper 10th percentile) by race/ethnicity interaction for each cardiometabolic risk factor and cardiometabolic risk burden score, respectively, across 6320 zip code tabulation areas. We also determined the age-adjusted prevalence of low, moderate, and high cardiometabolic risks defined as 0, 1 to 2, and 3 or more risk factors for hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia, and off-target glycemia for non-Hispanic White (n = 15 746), non-Hispanic Black (n = 1019), Hispanic (n = 1115), and other (n = 887), respectively. Results: The sample comprised 18 767 adolescents and adults with T1D. Those identifying as non-Hispanic Black were more likely to have a high cardiometabolic risk profile, including a 4.5-fold increase in the odds of off-target glycemia, a twofold increase in the odds of systolic hypertension, and 0.29 (unadjusted) and 0.46 (adjusted) increases in a higher cardiometabolic risk burden compared with non-Hispanic White individuals (P < .01). Those identifying as Hispanic had a 3.4-fold increase in the odds of off-target glycemia but were less likely to be overweight/obese or have systolic hypertension compared with non-Hispanic White. However, the lower likelihood of overweight/obesity and hypertension did not persist after considering covariates. Conclusion: There is a need to investigate additional determinants of racially/ethnically underrepresented cardiometabolic health, including structural racism and implicit bias in cardiometabolic care for individuals with T1D.