As I prepare to step down as Chief Executive Officer of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), I am filled with gratitude, pride, and optimism. Over the past 15 years, it has been my privilege to work alongside an extraordinary group of leaders, trusted partners, brilliant scientists, passionate advocates, and dedicated staff—all united by a shared commitment to healthier lives for all through the effective prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.
When I first joined NFID 15 years ago, none of us could have predicted the challenges that lay ahead. From seasonal flu to the global COVID-19 pandemic, infectious diseases have repeatedly reminded us of their power to disrupt lives and communities. Yet time and again, NFID has risen to the occasion—grounding our work in science, fostering collaboration, and serving as a trusted voice for public health.
What fills me most with pride is how NFID has grown and adapted without ever losing sight of our core values. Over the years, we navigated extraordinary obstacles and celebrated meaningful milestones. Together, we have:
- Expanded programs to strengthen vaccine confidence and address health equity
- Launched podcasts, webinars, and digital campaigns to reach people where they are
- Honored the pioneers of science while inspiring the next generation to follow in their footsteps
- Built partnerships across the public and private sectors to amplify our collective reach and impact
Through it all, NFID has become a stronger, more resilient organization—ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.
These accomplishments belong not to one person, but to the NFID community as a whole. I am deeply proud of what we have achieved, and I am confident that NFID is now stronger than ever—well positioned to meet the challenges of the future, from emerging pathogens to the urgent need for continued public trust in science.
On a personal note, I have grown immensely during these 15 years. I have learned so much and I have been humbled by the brilliance and generosity of the infectious disease community. Leadership is not about one person—it is about building something bigger that will last long after you are gone.
As I look ahead, I am excited about what comes next—for both NFID and for me personally. I have no doubt that NFID will continue to thrive under new leadership, advancing its mission with the same passion and purpose that has guided us for more than 50 years.
To our partners, colleagues, supporters, and friends—thank you. Thank you for your support, your trust, your collaboration, and your unwavering belief in the power of prevention. Serving as NFID CEO has been a privilege beyond measure, and saying goodbye is bittersweet. I will forever cherish the memories we have made and the progress we have achieved together. I look forward to cheering from the sidelines and watching NFID continue to flourish in the years to come …
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