CDC Director Erica Schwartz has promised to prioritize restoring trust within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emphasizing the need for open communication and safe feedback among employees. Schwartz aims to create an environment where staff can offer candid feedback without fear of retaliation, acknowledging the challenges faced by a workforce spread thin due to staffing cuts and public health challenges. She also plans to work on addressing staffing gaps and advocating for critical hires that are needed to fulfill the CDC’s mission for the American people.

Schwartz’s leadership comes at a time of significant uncertainty for the CDC, following a tumultuous year that included a shooting at the agency’s headquarters and ongoing outbreaks to respond to. In addition to focusing on internal staffing issues, Schwartz is also prepared to address external concerns, such as vaccine hesitancy, while working towards rebuilding trust with the public. With the support of CDC leadership, Schwartz is determined to turn the tide and lead the CDC in a new direction to overcome current challenges and regain stability.