Marla Dalton, PE, CAE is the former chief executive officer (CEO) of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and former co-host of Infectious IDeas, a podcast that goes beyond the science to explore the personal stories behind the people doing the work. Each episode features thought-provoking conversations with inspiring leaders and humble heroes making a powerful impact on public health.

She joined NFID in 2010 and served as chief staff officer from 2013 until her retirement in September 2025. Under her bold leadership, NFID integrated public and professional education programs, expanded strategic partnerships with more than 300 organizations, achieved significant growth in NFID reserves and investment assets, developed new programs and resources, and led innovative medical education and outreach initiatives that significantly broadened the reach and impact of NFID.

She previously served as senior vice president of education and consulting services at the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (APIC) where she was responsible for the development and management of all live and online educational programs and products as well as APIC Consulting Services, Inc., a wholly-owned, for-profit subsidiary. Prior to joining APIC, she was executive vice president of the Industry Leaders Council at the American Society of Civil Engineers and executive director of The Infrastructure Security Partnership.

Dalton is a Certified Association Executive and a registered professional engineer in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She is a member of the American Society of Association Executives, the Council of Engineering and Scientific Society Executives, and serves as a nonprofit advisor to Charity Navigator.

Updated January 2026