CDC Deputy Director Dr. Jennifer Shuford Announces Resignation Effective Nov. 12
Dr. Jennifer Shuford, the CDC’s deputy director and chief medical officer, will leave her post on Nov. 12, citing family reasons, while Satish Pillai will assume the role in an acting capacity.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Tuesday that Dr. Jennifer Shuford, who has served as deputy director and chief medical officer since her April appointment, will depart the agency on Nov. 12. > "I am leaving to spend more time with my family," Shuford said in a statement, adding gratitude to President Trump and Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the opportunity to help lead the CDC. > CDC Director Dr. Erica Schwartz thanked Shuford, noting her "outstanding leadership and commitment to CDC and public health" during a demanding period. In the interim, Satish Pillai will serve as acting chief medical officer and deputy director.
Shuford, board-certified in internal medicine and infectious diseases, holds a medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. Prior to joining the CDC, she was Texas’ chief state epidemiologist and later commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, overseeing statewide public health programs, infectious disease response, and emergency preparedness.
During a February 2025 measles outbreak in western Texas, Shuford described the situation as "unusual" for the state, highlighting declining vaccination rates and the need to increase vaccine coverage to curb the spread.