Columbia University Announces New Dean of the Mailman School of Public Health
Columbia University is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jonathan Mermin, MD, MPH, as the next Dean of the Mailman School of Public Health, effective March 2. Dr. Mermin is a renowned public health leader whose dedication to scientific excellence, health equity, and public service has left an indelible mark on the field.
In a statement released by Claire Shipman, Acting President of Columbia University in the City of New York, and Katrina Armstrong, MD, Dean of the Faculties of Health Sciences and the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Executive Vice President for Health and Biomedical Sciences, Columbia University, the university expressed its excitement about Dr. Mermin's upcoming leadership.
"We are delighted to welcome Dr. Mermin to Columbia University as the next Dean of the Mailman School of Public Health and Senior Vice President, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC)," the statement read. "His extensive experience and vision will undoubtedly shape the future of the Mailman School."
Dr. Mermin's illustrious career has been marked by his exceptional contributions to public health research, practice, and policy. Most recently, he served as Director of the National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and Tuberculosis Prevention (NCHHSTP) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where he managed a substantial annual budget and a dedicated team. His leadership was instrumental in preventing infectious diseases, reducing health disparities, and translating research into practical public health actions.
As a distinguished physician, epidemiologist, researcher, and organizational leader, Dr. Mermin has been instrumental in strengthening public health systems and mentoring the next generation of leaders. His commitment to data-driven decision-making and collaboration with affected communities has been a cornerstone of his leadership. Dr. Mermin has authored and co-authored over 250 peer-reviewed publications, solidifying his reputation as a trusted advisor to national and international public health organizations.
Dr. Mermin's educational background is impressive, having earned his BA from Harvard University, MD from the Stanford University School of Medicine, and MPH from the Emory University Rollins School of Public Health. He also completed residencies in internal medicine and preventive medicine, as well as serving as an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer at the CDC.
The university expressed gratitude to Shih-Fu Chang, Dean of The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, and the search committee for their efforts in identifying Dr. Mermin as the ideal candidate. They also acknowledged the leadership and dedication of Kathleen Sikkema, Interim Dean, during the transition period.
The appointment of Dr. Mermin marks an exciting new chapter for the Mailman School of Public Health, and the university is eager to see the positive impact he will have on the school's future.
