Houston Mayor John Whitmire has nominated Dr. Theresa Tran to serve as interim director of the Houston Health Department. She would take over following the retirement of Stephen Williams, who held the position for 21 years. CW39 stated that the announcement was made on Saturday, and the nomination is awaiting City Council confirmation.
Dr. Tran has worked in both clinical care and health policy. At UTHealth Houston, she served as an associate vice president, focusing on community engagement, research, and education. The Houston Chronicle reports that she also held positions as assistant dean at the School of Public Health and director of strategic initiatives for Harris Health’s multi-visit patient program.
Mayor John Whitmire announced his support for Dr. Tran as director of the Houston Health Department, saying, “Dr. Tran’s leadership, experience and vision make her the right choice to guide the Houston Health Department at this important time.” In response, Dr. Tran said, “I am truly honored and grateful to Mayor Whitmire for his confidence in me to lead this department,” and noted she looks forward to working with the team, as mentioned by Houston Chronicle. The City Council will vote on her appointment on September 3.
