Lappin Appointed to CDC Advisory Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Debra Lappin has been appointed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Michael Leavitt, to serve on the Advisory Committee to the Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In this role, she will advise the Director of the CDC, Dr. Julie L. Gerberding, on policy issues that affect health.

"Of course it's a great honor to be asked to serve, and it is also a responsibility I take seriously" said Lappin, who has been on the Advisory Committee since 2003 and is the single member asked to continue service on the newly configured committee. "We are facing a critical time when our nation's health system requires re-examination and adjustment. The CDC will be at the center of this dialogue, and I look forward to offering support and input in this advisory role."

The Advisory Committee to the Director is charged with developing recommendations and broad strategies to assist Dr. Gerberding fulfill the CDC's mission of health promotion, prevention and preparedness. Lappin's term begins immediately and will run through 2010.