The Alexandria Health Department will see a leadership change next month after director Dr. David Rose departs his role.
After Nov. 9, Rose will be leaving the AHD to take a role as regional director of the north/northwest region at the Virginia Department of Health. The AHD is part of the state-run Virginia Department of Health and falls under the northern region that Rose will oversee.
“I’m so grateful for my time at AHD, and for what I have learned from my staff and Alexandria community members about what it takes to create the conditions for healthier communities,” Rose said in a release. “I’ll take these lessons into my regional work, where I’ll continue to support AHD and the people we serve.”
Rose, who previously worked in various health roles in Maryland and D.C., took the helm as the Alexandria Health Department director in November 2021. During his tenure, Rose was tasked with leading Alexandria out of the COVID-19 pandemic and responding to a local mpox (formerly called monkeypox) surge. Rose also promoted AHD’s Healthy Homes Initiative to address environmental health risks in homes and oversaw the opening of a new Teen Wellness Center clinic at the Alexandria City High School Minnie Howard Campus.
“We are grateful for Dr. Rose’s leadership and commitment to improving health for all Alexandrians,” said City Manager James Parajon. “His contributions have strengthened our community, and we look forward to our city’s continued partnership with the Virginia Department of Health with Dr. Rose as a regional director.”
During the transition, Dr. Anne Gaddy, deputy director of the AHD, will oversee operations while VDH seeks a new director. Gaddy had previously served as interim director of the AHD during the COVID-19 pandemic. AHD plans to continue ongoing initiatives like its Community Health Improvement Plan process and implementing an electronic health record system.
