Joseph A. Califano Jr.

JAC AR 2007

Joseph A. Califano Jr. (born May 15, 1931) is an American attorney, professor, and public servant. He served as the United States Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare from 1977 to 1979 under President Jimmy Carter. Califano has also been a prominent figure in the fields of law, public health, and education.

Early Life and Education

Joseph Anthony Califano Jr. was born in Brooklyn, New York City. He attended College of the Holy Cross and graduated in 1952. He then went on to earn his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1955.

Career

Early Career

After graduating from Harvard, Califano served in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1958. Following his military service, he worked as a law clerk for Judge Henry J. Friendly of the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.

Government Service

Califano began his government career in 1961 as a special assistant to the United States Secretary of Defense, Robert McNamara. He played a significant role in the Vietnam War policy and was involved in various defense-related initiatives.

Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare

In 1977, President Jimmy Carter appointed Califano as the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. During his tenure, Califano focused on anti-smoking campaigns, drug abuse prevention, and health care reform. He was instrumental in the implementation of the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Later Career

After leaving government service, Califano founded the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University in 1992. He has also authored several books on public health and policy.

Personal Life

Califano is married to Hilary Califano, and they have three children. He continues to be active in public health advocacy and education.

Legacy

Joseph A. Califano Jr. is widely recognized for his contributions to public health, education, and government service. His work has had a lasting impact on American health policy and substance abuse prevention.

See Also

• United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
• Jimmy Carter
• Medicare
• Medicaid
• National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse

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