Dr. Debra Houry brings nearly three decades of leadership experience across federal government, health care, and academia. Previously, she served as Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Director for Program and Science at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Across four presidential administrations, Houry led public health programs with budgets exceeding $8 billion, built partnerships spanning all 50 states, and helped guide responses to challenges ranging from infectious disease outbreaks to firearm violence. During the 2025 presidential transition, she served as CDC’s senior-most career leader and scientist, working to safeguard scientific integrity and continuity of mission.

A board-certified emergency physician, Houry brings a clinician’s perspective to policy and organizational leadership. Through DH Leadership & Strategy Solutions and her advisory work in California, she advises governors, state and regional health networks, health systems, and technology companies. She is a sought-after speaker and advisor on crisis leadership, health policy, and translating science into action.

Houry is an elected member of the National Academy of Medicine and a recipient of the American Medical Association’s Award for Outstanding Government Service and the American College of Emergency Physicians’ Public Health Trailblazer Award. She has authored more than 100 academic articles. Her work and perspectives have appeared on CNN and NPR and in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal.