Guilford County is pleased to announce the appointment of Courtney McFadden, MPH, as the county’s new Division of Public Health director. In this role, she leads public health’s efforts in protecting and promoting the health of more than half a million residents, guiding a committed public health workforce, and advancing strategies focused on prevention, community engagement, and long-term impact. McFadden will serve as a team member of the Assistant County Manager for Successful People and Health and Human Services Director Victor Isler. Her first day is Monday, July 14.
McFadden boasts 19 years of experience with the Maryland Department of Health, where she advanced through several key leadership roles. Most recently, she served as deputy director of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration, overseeing a $500 million+ budget and providing strategic direction to more than 500 public health professionals across the state’s largest public health division. Her tenure includes serving as Center for Cancer Prevention and Control director, where she led statewide initiatives to improve cancer outcomes. As Maternal and Child Health Bureau director, she championed programs to improve the health and well-being of women, children, and families across Maryland.
“Guilford County is fortunate to bring on someone of Courtney’s caliber to lead our public health team as we continue to empower, protect, and promote the health and well-being of all county residents,” said Isler. “Her vast experience, leadership, and knowledge of public health systems, managing a dedicated workforce, and directing well-being initiatives benefit not only our community but also our state partners. I’m honored to welcome Courtney to the Division of Public Health where she will be supported by our dynamic team members, including Assistant Public Health Director Anita Ramachandran who effectively served as interim director for several months.”
“I am honored to join Guilford County at such a pivotal time for public health,” said McFadden. “I look forward to working alongside our county staff, partners, and the community to build a healthier, more meaningful future where residents thrive.”
A recognized leader in advancing access to healthcare, McFadden also served as a champion within the Maryland Department of Health, working to include principles to strengthen public health access through programs, policies, data systems, and data-directed decision-making to reduce barriers to healthcare access.
From January to November 2023, she served as interim chair of the Maryland Commission on Health Equity, helping lead cross-sector strategies to address economic and social structures leading to health inequities.
McFadden received her bachelor’s degree from Howard University and holds a Master of Public Health from George Washington University. She is currently a scholar in the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) Diverse Executives Leading in Public Health (DELPH) leadership development program, a national initiative focused on supporting emerging leaders in public health.