#United States #Washington #Public Health #Truth Initiative #Vaughan Rees

Truth Initiative Appoints Dr. Vaughan Rees as Chief Research Officer

On October 5, 2026, Truth Initiative, the leading nonprofit organization in the United States focused on combating nicotine addiction among youth and young adults, announced a significant leadership change. Dr. Vaughan Rees, a distinguished public health scientist and leader in addiction research, is set to join the organization as Chief Research Officer on October 27, 2026, succeeding Dr. Barbara Schillo.

Dr. Rees comes to Truth Initiative with an impressive background, having served as the Director of the Center for Global Tobacco Control at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health since 2015. His extensive career of over 25 years in public health research equips him with a nuanced understanding of addiction and behavioral sciences, tobacco regulation, and public health policy. As Chief Research Officer, he will spearhead the Schroeder Institute, which focuses on advancing scientific research and developing policy solutions to address addiction challenges among youth.

Kathy Crosby, CEO and President of Truth Initiative, expressed confidence in Dr. Rees's abilities. She stated, "Vaughan is an exceptional scientist and leader whose breadth of expertise is ideally matched to where Truth Initiative is headed. We have built a strong foundation in tobacco and nicotine science, and he will play a crucial role in refining our scientific approach as we tackle a wider range of addiction challenges, including cannabis and opioids, that young people face today."

Dr. Rees's strategic vision will encompass a multidisciplinary research agenda that focuses on tobacco and nicotine, addiction science, behavioral health, and emerging public health issues. His work aims to strengthen the organization’s ability to translate scientific findings into effective interventions, thereby enhancing public health outcomes.

"I am honored to join Truth Initiative, an organization with a commendable history of using science to foster public health," remarked Dr. Rees. He went on to highlight his enthusiasm for working with the organization’s talented team to deepen understanding of addiction while translating research insights into effective public health strategies.

Throughout his career, Dr. Rees has led numerous interdisciplinary research initiatives, receiving over $12 million in external funding for his projects. His contributions to addiction science have garnered recognition beyond the United States, including advisory roles for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization. Notably, he has directed comprehensive studies that investigate the intersection of tobacco products, consumer behavior, and regulatory science.

Dr. Rees’s extensive experience is complemented by a strong commitment to developing the next generation of public health professionals. He has effectively mentored over 60 master’s students and 12 doctoral scholars, underscoring his dedication to fostering growth in the field.

Following Dr. Barbara Schillo's tenure, which has significantly elevated Truth Initiative's reputation for rigorous public health research, Dr. Rees's appointment represents a pivotal point for the organization. Crosby acknowledged Schillo's invaluable contributions, emphasizing her role in developing exceptional researchers and ensuring rigorous, evidence-based interventions remain at the core of Truth Initiative's mission.

The Truth Initiative continues to strive towards a future devoid of lifelong addiction, utilizing innovative programs and research-backed strategies to combat youth tobacco use. Through initiatives like the EX® Program, which promotes cessation, the organization endeavors to empower individuals in overcoming nicotine addiction.

With Dr. Vaughan Rees at the helm of its research efforts, Truth Initiative is poised to navigate the evolving landscape of addiction challenges, ensuring that scientific evidence remains a guiding force in shaping effective public health policies. For more information about their mission and ongoing initiatives, visit Truth Initiative.