Melanie J. Wells Takes Helm as CEO of ADLM, Ushering in a New Era

Melanie J. Wells Appointed as CEO of ADLM

On November 18, 2025, the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM), known previously as AACC, announced the appointment of Melanie J. Wells, MPH, CAE, as its new Chief Executive Officer. This key leadership role will take effect on January 30, 2026, and represents a significant step for ADLM as it embarks on its newly unveiled strategic plan, aimed at advancing laboratory medicine for better health outcomes.

Wells joins ADLM following a successful tenure as the CEO of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) and its philanthropic extension, the ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine (ACMGF). Here, she orchestrated substantial operational changes, notably slashing organizational expenses by an impressive 80% within just one year and expanding the journal portfolio, which increased international reach and readership by 40%. With over two decades in leadership roles within global health and nonprofit sectors, Wells is set to bolster ADLM’s mission to enhance healthcare through laboratory science.

The ADLM is dedicated to bringing together a diverse community of over 70,000 professionals, including clinical laboratory personnel, physicians, and researchers, from more than 110 countries around the globe. The newly appointed CEO is expected to guide ADLM through its five main strategic goals. These include:

1. Promoting excellence in scientific practices and knowledge within diagnostics and laboratory medicine.
2. Driving the integration of data science into laboratory medicine.
3. Increasing recognition of laboratory medicine's impact on healthcare and empowering its professionals.
4. Strengthening advocacy efforts at regulatory and legislative levels to create a conducive environment for healthcare advancement.
5. Ensuring organizational sustainability and financial stability for the future.

Dr. Paul J. Jannetto, the ADLM President, highlighted Wells’ balanced and relationship-oriented approach, noting that her leadership will be invaluable as the organization aims for expansion and alignment with the needs of its members and the broader public. “Melanie brings a wealth of experience and a systemic understanding of health initiatives. Her capabilities will enhance ADLM’s community as we navigate an ever-evolving healthcare landscape,” he commented.

In her remarks, Wells expressed her enthusiasm for her new role: “This is an incredible moment to pursue the shared vision of the ADLM. I am committed to collaborating with our talented team to realize ADLM's strategic goals and to strengthen its foundation. Our aim is to revolutionize understanding in laboratory medicine and spotlight the crucial contributions of experts driving medical innovations and patient care.”

Wells holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management from the University of South Florida, further cementing her expertise in the field. Her career has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of improving health systems and outcomes, bolstered by her previous roles including Chief Operating Officer for the Society for Public Health Education and Senior Consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton.

As she steps into her role at ADLM, Wells’ vision aligns closely with the organization’s commitment to fostering scientific collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the development of innovative solutions for health improvement. With her leadership, ADLM aims not only to enhance its professional network but also to make significant strides in laboratory medicine that resonate globally.

The ADLM, dedicated to advancing laboratory medicine since 1948, continues to support clinical chemistry, molecular diagnostics, mass spectrometry, and more, solidifying its role in global health. For more information on ADLM and its initiatives, visit www.myadlm.org.