A veteran champion of global health initiatives, Dr. Rana Hajjeh has worked tirelessly for 25 years at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to improve the lives of individuals in developing countries.Currently, she is the director of the Division of Bacterial Diseases at the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, where she leads a team of nearly 200 staff. Dr. Rana Hajjeh was recently honored as the Federal Employee of the Year from the Partnership for Public Service. The Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP) spoke with Dr. Hajjeh to congratulate her for achieving this high distinction and to discuss her commitment to public service.
CAAP: Why don’t you tell us a little bit about your work?
Rana Hajjeh: I’ve worked for many years in the international and domestic health sector. I’ve largely focused on developing vaccines for children, specifically meningitis. Additionally, I’ve worked on coalitions to implement vaccine-related policies in developing countries. Through my work I hope to strengthen the public health infrastructure in developing countries, improve children’s health across the board, and lower maternal mortality.
CAAP: What kind of impact would you like to make on the world?
RH: I would like to make an impact on global health by saving children’s lives. I also think that the Arab American community needs positive role models that can show what can be achieved through hard work and commitment. I believe Arab Americans have a responsibility to give back to charitable causes, whether it’s saving lives, improving access to education, or cultivating employment opportunities.
CAAP: How are you involved in your local community?
RH: Relocating with my husband from Tripoli, Lebanon to Atlanta, GA was made easier by the Arab American community, which has become our family. My husband and I like to give back together to our local community. We are actively involved with several organizations, including the Alif Institute and the Islamic Speakers Bureau. We try to be selective and give to groups that will have a wider impact on cultural awareness and education. We look forward to seeing what our son and daughter accomplish through their work and charitable giving.
CAAP: Thank you so much for your time, Rana, and congratulations again!
RH: Thank you!
Dr. Rana Hajjeh is currently working with the CDC in response to the Ebola outbreak that has ravaged much of Western Africa. She also continues to advocate for education and prevention of meningitis, as she recently helped her team at the CDC secure a grant to monitor the impact of a meningitis vaccine being implemented in sub-Saharan Africa. Keep an eye on our blog for more Arab Americans making a huge difference in their communities and beyond!