The Network for Public Health Law (Network) announces the appointment of Donna E. Levin as the new Chair of its Advisory Board. With a 45-year career in public health law, Donna is a highly respected leader recognized for her contributions to the field, including receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Law Section of the American Public Health Association.
From 2014 to 2022, Donna served as the National Director of the Network, during which time the organization became a key resource for public health departments nationwide, particularly amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership was crucial in addressing legislative threats to the authority of health departments.
“Donna’s deep experience and commitment to the Network and to the field of public health are invaluable in guiding our strategies and efforts to make our communities safer, healthier and more equitable through law and policy. We are excited to welcome her back in this important leadership role,” said Interim Co-Executive Director Ann Phi-Wendt.
Prior to her role at the Network, Donna spent 26 years as General Counsel for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, where she provided legal guidance on statutory and regulatory matters and led significant policy initiatives. Her efforts contributed to the enactment of legislation that improved public health protocols and state response capabilities.
Additionally, Donna has served as an Adjunct Professor of Public Health Law at Suffolk University School of Law and lectured at the Harvard School of Public Health. Her work with the Institute of Medicine’s Committee on Guidance for Establishing Standards of Care in Disaster Situations reflects her dedication to advancing health policy in critical scenarios.
“As Chair of our Advisory Board, Donna will help the Network as we navigate emerging challenges in our work to promote health equity and ensure that every individual has access to the resources and opportunities needed for a healthier future,” said Quang (Q) Dang, interim co-executive director at the Network.
The Network looks forward to Donna’s leadership in advancing our mission and promoting progress in public health law and policy.
About the Network for Public Health Law
The Network works with local, tribal, state and federal public health policy makers, officials, attorneys and practitioners, as well as community organizations, advocates, and other stakeholders in community health across the country to help build their capacity to improve health and advance health equity through the use of law and policy. We provide evidence-based solutions and best practices through technical assistance, as well as information, resources, consultation and training. Learn more at networkforphl.org.
The Network is supported by grants from some of the nation’s leading health philanthropies, including the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the Kresge Foundation, the de Beaumont Foundation, and Arnold Ventures. The Network also receives project funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the CDC Foundation.
CONTACT: Nina Belforte – Deputy Director of Strategic Communications, Network for Public Health Law
NBelforte@networkforphl.org
