Christopher J.L. Murray Honored with 2025 Fries Prize for Health Advancements

Honoring a Visionary: Dr. Christopher J.L. Murray

On November 3, 2025, Dr. Christopher J.L. Murray was awarded the esteemed James and Sarah Fries Prize for Improving Health by the CDC Foundation during the American Public Health Association's annual meeting in Washington, D.C. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the enhancement of public health, with the aim of improving health outcomes for the largest number of people.

Dr. Murray's pioneering work as a physician and health economist has dramatically transformed public health initiatives globally. His innovative analytical methods for identifying and prioritizing health challenges have empowered policymaking and interventions, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes across numerous populations. As Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation, stated, "His leadership has reshaped how public health priorities are set and has improved health outcomes for millions of people around the world."

A prominent figure in the field, Dr. Murray is the founder and director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington. Under his guidance, IHME has become a global leader in health research, relying on collaborations with over 17,000 professionals worldwide to shed light on health issues and the state of global health.

The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study, a landmark initiative led by Dr. Murray, systematically quantifies health losses over time and across geographical locations. This initiative has provided critical insights into major health indicators, allowing policymakers and health organizations to identify and address pressing health challenges more effectively. The recently released GBD 2023 continues to refocus attention on vital health issues, offering tools that health systems can utilize to build a healthier future.

Dr. Murray's extensive body of research includes hundreds of peer-reviewed articles, which have influenced health strategies globally. His frameworks have informed decisions on critical areas such as maternal and child health, infectious diseases, and noncommunicable diseases. These contributions have played a pivotal role in directing global health funding and policy, helping improve health outcomes around the world.

His vision for a world in which everyone can lead long and healthy lives resonates deeply throughout the healthcare community. Notably, Dr. Julio Frenk, UCLA Chancellor, who supported Dr. Murray's nomination for the Fries Prize, emphasized his commitment to education and inspiring health policymakers.

The James F. and Sarah T. Fries Foundation, established in 1991, focuses on recognizing individuals and organizations that have made substantial contributions to public health. Through the collaboration of the CDC Foundation and the Fries Foundation, awards such as the James and Sarah Fries Prize are instrumental for honoring outstanding public health leaders like Dr. Murray.

Thanks to initiatives like these, the future looks promising as public health continues to evolve and adapt to meet the complex challenges of global health. With advocates like Dr. Murray leading the charge, the commitment to enhancing health for all remains stronger than ever.

For more information about the CDC Foundation and its initiatives, please visit CDC Foundation Website.