Rebecca Alvania Steps Up as Executive Director of NFID, Promising Impactful Leadership

Rebecca Alvania Steps Up as Executive Director of NFID

On August 5, 2025, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) excitedly revealed the appointment of Dr. Rebecca Alvania, PhD, MA, MPH, as its new Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective from September 1, 2025. This appointment signifies a crucial transition as Dr. Alvania steps into the role previously held by Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, who has dedicated over a decade to leading the organization with transformative initiatives. Dalton will remain with NFID in a consultancy capacity throughout the leadership transition.

A Legacy of Leadership

The NFID Board of Directors applauded the remarkable contributions made by Dalton since she joined the organization in 2010, especially noting her influence as Chief Staff Officer from 2013 onwards. Under Dalton's visionary guidance, NFID evolved significantly, integrating public and professional educational programs and expanding partnerships with over 300 organizations. This has allowed NFID to grow its reserves and maximize investment assets while simultaneously launching innovative medical education and outreach initiatives, increasing its national presence.

Reflecting on her tenure, Dalton expressed immense pride in the team's accomplishments, saying, "From our educational outreach to strengthening alliances within the public health sector, we have positioned NFID as a frontrunner in infectious disease prevention. I am confident that Rebecca, along with our talented team, will continue this mission and navigate us into a new chapter of impactful leadership."

Rebecca Alvania: A Visionary Choice

Dr. Alvania arrives at NFID with a solid background in scientific leadership, strategic planning, and global public health. In her previous role as CEO of the American Society for Cell Biology, she successfully modernized the organization's mission and programs, orchestrated a significant financial turnaround, and enhanced global engagement. Her blend of strategic acumen and operational prowess makes her an ideal leader to advance NFID's objectives.

"We look forward to collaborating with Rebecca, who brings a unique blend of visionary leadership and commitment to public health," stated Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH, NFID president and chair of the Search Committee. "Her impressive track record in building impactful partnerships and driving innovative programs will certainly elevate NFID's initiatives."

Advancing the NFID Mission

As the chief staff officer, Dr. Alvania's primary responsibility will be to spearhead efforts advancing NFID's mission. She is expected to elevate public and professional engagement surrounding infectious diseases while serving as a central spokesperson for the organization. Her experience in media communications and scientific publication previously showcased her ability to convey essential information efficiently, especially during public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, where she facilitated expedited research sharing.

Dr. Alvania boasts a doctorate in neuroscience from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, a master's degree in science communication from Johns Hopkins University, and a master’s in global public health from Tulane University. She is highly active in professional organizations, including the American Society of Association Executives and the Association for Women in Science.

A New Chapter for NFID

In her own words, Alvania expressed her enthusiasm about joining NFID, stating, "It's an honor to be part of such a respected organization at a time when public health challenges demand our utmost dedication. NFID is pivotal in promoting vaccine confidence and disseminating evidence-based information, and I am eager to contribute my expertise to further this mission."

Founded in 1973, NFID is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and engaging communities and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases. Garnering a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and achieving a Platinum transparency seal from Candid, NFID aims to make a lasting impact in public health for generations to come. For more information on NFID's initiatives, visit www.nfid.org.