Deborah Birx

Deborah Birx is an American physician and diplomat who served as the White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator under President Donald Trump from February 2020 to January 2021. She is a world-renowned medical expert and leader in the field of HIV/AIDS immunology, vaccine research, and global health.

Early Life and Education

Deborah Leah Birx was born on April 4, 1956, in Pennsylvania. She completed her undergraduate degree in chemistry from Hiram College in 1976 and earned her medical degree from the Hershey School of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University in 1980.

Career

Birx began her medical career as a clinician in immunology, focusing on HIV/AIDS vaccine research. In 1985, she joined the United States Army and during her time in the military, she rose to the rank of Colonel. She made significant contributions to HIV/AIDS research during her time in the military, particularly in the area of vaccine research.

In 2005, Birx was appointed as the Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Global HIV/AIDS. In this role, she oversaw the implementation of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program, which aimed to combat HIV/AIDS worldwide.

In 2014, President Barack Obama appointed Birx as the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, a position she held until 2020. In this role, she led all U.S. government efforts in the global response to HIV/AIDS.

In February 2020, Birx was appointed by President Donald Trump as the White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator. She played a key role in the U.S. government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing expert advice and guidance on public health measures.

Personal Life

Birx is married to Paige Reffe, a former Deputy Assistant and Director of Advance for President Bill Clinton. They have two adult daughters.

See Also

• COVID-19 pandemic in the United States
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief