Brenda Fitzgerald

American physician and public health official

Brenda Fitzgerald

Brenda Fitzgerald is an American physician and former public health official who served as the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from July 2017 until her resignation in January 2018. Her career has spanned various roles in medicine and public health, including serving as the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Health.

Early life and education

Brenda Fitzgerald was born in Georgia. She pursued her undergraduate education at Georgia State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology. She then attended the Emory University School of Medicine, obtaining her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Following medical school, Fitzgerald completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Emory University Hospital.

Medical career

After completing her residency, Fitzgerald practiced as an obstetrician-gynecologist in Georgia. She was also a major in the United States Air Force, where she served as a physician. During her time in the Air Force, she gained experience in aerospace medicine.

Major rank insignia

Public health career

In 2011, Fitzgerald was appointed as the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Health. In this role, she focused on initiatives to improve maternal and child health, reduce obesity, and promote vaccination programs. Her leadership in Georgia's public health sector was marked by efforts to integrate public health services with community-based initiatives.

Director of the CDC

Fitzgerald was appointed as the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in July 2017 by the Trump administration. Her tenure at the CDC was brief, as she resigned in January 2018 following reports of financial conflicts of interest related to her investments in tobacco and healthcare companies.

Resignation

Fitzgerald's resignation from the CDC was prompted by concerns over her financial investments, which were seen as conflicting with the mission of the CDC, particularly in areas related to tobacco control and public health policy.

Legacy and impact

Despite her short tenure at the CDC, Fitzgerald's career in public health has been noted for her advocacy in maternal and child health and her efforts to combat obesity and promote vaccination. Her work in Georgia laid the groundwork for several public health initiatives that continue to impact the state.

Related pages

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public health

Fitzgerald's career included service in the U.S. Air Force, similar to other public servants.