This week, the Baltimore City Health Department mourns the loss of our dear colleague, friend, and dedicated public servant, Phyllis Burnett.

Those who know her will be the first to say that these numerous accomplishments cannot begin to describe the impact that Phyllis has made. Last week, I had the opportunity to speak with some members of the STD/HIV team. Many commented on how they learned how to do outreach because of Phyllis. They talked about how she was unrelenting in reaching people where they are, to prevent diseases, and to save lives. They told me about how public health is in her blood and her being.

Baltimore has never taken a back seat to addressing public health challenges, and Phyllis was truly one our public health heroes. She was determined to reduce health disparities by making sure that where people lived did not determined if they lived.

This week, I am also glad to announce the appointment of Jennifer Martin as our new Deputy Commissioner of Population Health and Disease Prevention. Jenn has been with the Health Department for over eight years and served in a number of capacities, including most recently as the Director of the Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response and the Acting Deputy Commissioner. I feel fortunate to work with our entire Health Department team who understand how health is integrally tied to social justice and the future of our communities. Today, tomorrow, and every day, let us continue to do the important work of keeping Baltimore health and well. Let us go to where people are, serve the most vulnerable, and treat everyone with respect, dignity, and humanity.

Leana Wen, M.D., M.Sc.

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