Dr. Jennifer Shuford's Appointment as CDC Deputy Director: A New Era in Public Health Leadership

ASTHO's Statement on Jennifer Shuford's Appointment as CDC Deputy Director

On April 17, 2026, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) publicly recognized the recent appointment of Dr. Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH, as the Deputy Director and Chief Medical Officer of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In a statement issued by ASTHO's CEO, Joseph Kanter, the organization expressed applause and confidence in Dr. Shuford's leadership abilities.
"We applaud the appointment of Dr. Shuford to serve as deputy director and chief medical officer for CDC," stated Kanter. "Her reputation in the public health and governmental leadership communities is exceptional. Her track record showcases a commitment to evidence-based approaches in public health advocacy."

Dr. Shuford has vast experience navigating complex public health challenges, leading one of the nation's most extensive state health agencies as Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services. Her dual role as a front-line infectious disease physician and Chief State Epidemiologist positions her uniquely to contribute to the CDC's mission effectively.

"Dr. Shuford possesses a comprehensive understanding of the relationships that exist between federal, state, local, territorial, and tribal health departments," Kanter added, emphasizing how her clinical expertise and crisis management skills are assets for the CDC and the nation.

Educational Background and Professional Achievements

Dr. Shuford’s academic foundation is impressive. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Colorado College and went on to receive her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. Furthermore, she completed her Internal Medicine residency at Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas, serving as chief resident during her tenure.

In addition to her medical training, Dr. Shuford completed an Infectious Disease fellowship at the renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and furthered her expertise by obtaining a Master of Public Health degree from the Harvard School of Public Health.

Currently, she contributes as a faculty member of the DSHS Preventive Medicine and Public Health Residency Program while holding memberships in various esteemed organizations, including the Travis County Medical Society, the Texas Medical Association, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

ASTHO's Role

The ASTHO is a key player in the landscape of public health in the United States, representing the public health agencies across American jurisdictions, including the U.S. territories and freely associated states. It encompasses more than 100,000 public health professionals dedicated to enhancing public health policy and ensuring exemplary public health practices across the nation.

This announcement marks a pivotal moment not only for Dr. Shuford but also for the future of public health leadership in the U.S., as her experience and commitment to public health are expected to usher in a new era of effective health management at the CDC. With her appointment, many anticipate significant strides in addressing the healthcare challenges that lie ahead, driven by a robust understanding of both grassroots public health needs and robust federal systems.

In light of the continued evolution of health issues faced globally, the expectations from Dr. Shuford's leadership at CDC are elevated. Her strategic guidance and efficient crisis response are crucial during these dynamic and often challenging public health environments. The nation looks forward to her contributions, hoping they will facilitate improved health outcomes and promote better collaborations across different health sectors.