Notable Public Health Leaders Awarded at the CDC Foundation Fries Awards Ceremony

Celebrating Excellence in Public Health: The CDC Foundation Fries Awards

On July 23, 2025, the CDC Foundation proudly announced the winners of this year's coveted Fries Awards, recognizing the exemplary work of two leaders in the field of public health: Dr. Christopher J.L. Murray and Dr. Sandro Galea. Both individuals were selected for their outstanding contributions to enhancing public health and health education, reflecting the mission of the Fries Foundation in honoring those who have made significant impacts on the health of society.

Dr. Christopher J.L. Murray - A Pioneer in Health Metrics

Dr. Christopher J.L. Murray, MD, DPhil, is this year's recipient of the James and Sarah Fries Prize for Improving Health. He has been instrumental in transforming how global health issues are understood and addressed. As the founder and director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington, Dr. Murray has led The Global Burden of Disease study, which is the most comprehensive effort to quantify health loss worldwide.

His work has significantly influenced public health policy, providing critical data that helps policymakers, researchers, and advocates make informed decisions to improve health outcomes across various populations. The selection committee praised Dr. Murray for his innovative methods in identifying and prioritizing health issues, which have led to more effective health policies and interventions that benefit communities globally.

Dr. Sandro Galea - A Leader in Health Education

Dr. Sandro Galea, MD, DrPH, has been awarded the 2026 Elizabeth Fries Health Education Award for his major contributions to health education and promotion. Dr. Galea exemplifies the role of a public health academician, effectively communicating vital health information through diverse channels and reaching a wider audience.

Currently, as the inaugural Margaret C. Ryan Dean of the Washington University School of Public Health, Dr. Galea has a rich background in public health scholarship that focuses on social determinants of health and how trauma impacts mental and behavioral health. His efforts have illuminated the intricate ties between environment, society, and health, emphasizing the importance of understanding these linkages in health education.

Acknowledgment of Leadership and Vision

Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation, expressed her admiration for both awardees, stating, “Through their visionary work, Drs. Murray and Galea have set powerful examples of innovation and dedication.” Their collective research and leadership continue to push the boundaries of public health, impacting communities worldwide.

Dr. Murray is set to receive a monetary award of $100,000 during the American Public Health Association's (APHA) annual meeting in Washington, D.C., scheduled from November 2–5, 2025. Meanwhile, Dr. Galea will be honored with the Elizabeth Fries Health Education Award and a monetary prize of $50,000 at the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) conference in Portland, OR, taking place on April 22–24, 2026.

The Fries Foundation, which was founded to identify and honor significant contributions to public health, continues to work closely with the CDC Foundation in managing these prestigious awards. Together, they support the ongoing mission of improving public health through recognition of extraordinary individuals and their achievements.

About the CDC Foundation

The CDC Foundation plays a crucial role in the health sector, assisting the CDC in its mission to protect the health and safety of communities. By forming partnerships with philanthropic organizations and other stakeholders, it aims to address pressing health issues, from infectious diseases to chronic health conditions.

Since its inception in 1995, the CDC Foundation has initiated over 1,450 programs aimed at various health threats, demonstrating its commitment to public health advancement. By continuing to recognize and support groundbreaking work in the field, it helps maintain a focus on the betterment of health outcomes for people globally.

For more information about the CDC Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.cdcfoundation.org. Follow them on social media platforms for updates on health programs and contributions to public wellbeing.