These stories are based on confidential interviews conducted as part of the CDC Listening Project. Participants review and approve written summaries describing their work, their contributions, and the circumstances surrounding their separation. Stories are published without names or identifying details.
Developing Advanced Lab Tests to Inform Polio Eradication Strategy
This CDC scientist spent more than three decades helping protect children from paralysis. Work advancing PCR testing, genetic sequencing, and global laboratory training informed vaccination strategy in 131 countries and helped drive wild poliovirus to the brink of eradication.
Improving Health Communication Here and Abroad
A national STI prevention campaign helped drive major increases in testing among young people—demonstrating the power of research-informed communication. This CDC health communication leader designed and led evidence-based campaigns on HPV, sexual health, Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19, combining behavioral science, strategic partnerships, and rapid translation of data to reach millions and strengthen public health efforts in the U.S. and abroad.
Building Capacity to Detect Health Threats and Manage a Strategic Response
This public health leader built systems that strengthened outbreak response, workforce training, and strategic planning nationwide. During COVID-19, this CDC professional helped streamline emergency grant distribution—processing hundreds of awards in days instead of months—to ensure states, tribes, and communities received critical resources when they needed them most.