Former CDC official to lead RWJF

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation today named as its next president and CEO Richard Besser, M.D., a former acting director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention who currently serves as chief health and medical editor for ABC News. Besser will succeed Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, M.D., who has led the foundation for the past 14 years, sometime in April. “Risa leaves big shoes to fill,” said Roger Fine, chairman of the foundation’s board. “She has been a remarkable leader and visionary. Richard Besser will bring his own wisdom and energy to our work. I’m confident that he will continue the strong, inspired leadership to which we have grown so accustomed.” Besser served as acting CDC director from January to June 2009 and previously directed the agency’s Coordinating Office for Terrorism Preparedness and Emergency Response.