ASTHO Welcomes Leaders in Public Health Transformation with Key Promotions and New Appointment

ASTHO Welcomes New Leadership to Enhance Public Health Initiatives

The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) has made significant strides in its leadership by announcing notable promotions and a new appointment. This move, revealed on September 18, 2026, aims to bolster public health efforts across the United States. Lindsey Myers has been elevated to Senior Vice President for Leadership, Infrastructure, and Transformation, while Jeffrey Ekoma assumes the role of Vice President of Government Affairs. Jane Bigham joins as Senior Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Relations.

Lindsey Myers: A Driving Force in Public Health

Lindsey Myers brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Vice President at ASTHO, where she was instrumental in implementing significant public health infrastructure initiatives. For the past four years, she focused on the Public Health Infrastructure Grant (PHIG) programs, enhancing capabilities for state and local health agencies. Her prior experience includes working with Colorado’s public health department, leading initiatives in injury prevention and mental health promotion. Additionally, Myers has an impressive educational background, holding a BA in Biochemistry and English from the University of Colorado Boulder, alongside an MPH from Yale University. Her extensive education and experience position her as a vital asset in developing the organizational strategy and enabling transformation.

Jeffrey Ekoma: Advocating for Policy Change

In his position as Vice President of Government Affairs, Jeffrey Ekoma is set to utilize over ten years of experience in federal health policy to advance ASTHO’s advocacy. He will lead congressional engagement strategies and represent the organization in significant policy discussions. Ekoma's expertise includes securing vital funding and pushing for public health initiatives from emergency preparedness to workforce development. He holds an MBA from Johns Hopkins University, and an MS from Towson University, equipping him to translate complex policies into actionable strategies for public health leaders nationwide.

Jane Bigham: Expert in Legislative Strategies

Joining the leadership team, Jane Bigham brings nearly 20 years of public health experience and a strong legislative background. Her previous tenure at the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) has prepared her for advancing crucial public health legislation. Bigham was central to negotiations on significant acts, including the PREVENT Pandemics Act. Her educational accolades include a BA in Psychology and Spanish from Agnes Scott College, plus an MPH from Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health. Bigham’s expertise will be pivotal in shaping policies that directly affect public health practices nationwide.

Collective Commitment to Improving Public Health

ASTHO’s CEO, Dr. Joseph Kanter, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the appointments, praising the extensive experience and commitment each new leader brings. He emphasized, "Lindsey and Jane join our senior leadership team and welcome Jeffrey to our executive leadership team. Together, these three bring a wealth of expertise and a shared dedication to enhancing public health across our communities."

ASTHO serves as a crucial national organization representing public health agencies and professionals throughout the U.S., its territories, and Washington, D.C. The organization aims to formulate and influence sound public health policies to ensure excellence in health practices, enhancing the capacity of agencies in serving the community.

With such strategic appointments, ASTHO is positioning itself strongly for future challenges in public health, ready to address significant issues affecting the safety and health of American communities. This transition underscores a robust leadership strategy dedicated to effective public health advocacy and infrastructure development as the nation navigates its health challenges.

ASTHO’s commitment to improving public health is evident as it welcomes these key leaders, aiming for a transformative impact going forward.