Johns Hopkins University Appoints Allyson Bear as New Jhpiego CEO
Established in 1876, Johns Hopkins University stands as America’s first research university, and continues to lead in innovation and global impact. A recent development highlights this commitment: the appointment of Allyson Bear as the next President and CEO of Jhpiego, a Johns Hopkins-affiliated global health organization.
Allyson Bear, the newly appointed President and CEO of Jhpiego.
A Proven Leader in Global Health
Allyson Bear, a distinguished public health executive and alumna of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, brings over 25 years of experience leading complex, mission-driven health organizations. Her selection follows a comprehensive global search, and she will officially assume her role on April 1st, succeeding Leslie Mancuso, who has dedicated more than two decades to leading Jhpiego.
Johns Hopkins University President Ron Daniels expressed his confidence in Bear’s leadership, stating, “Allyson brings to Jhpiego a proven track record in strategic growth, innovation, and resource mobilization across the global health, economic development, and humanitarian sectors, as well as the profound commitment to promoting dignified health care for all that has guided her career.” He further emphasized her vision, innovative spirit, and team-oriented approach will be invaluable to Jhpiego.
From VennHealth to Global Impact
Bear joins Jhpiego from VennHealth, a Baltimore-based public health consultancy she founded and currently serves as CEO. Her extensive experience includes earning both an MPH and a DrPH in international health from the Bloomberg School and working in over 45 countries, with 11 years of residence across Africa and Asia.
Executive Vice Provost Stephen Gange, chair of the search committee, highlighted Bear’s unique perspective: “As a Johns Hopkins alumna, Dr. Bear brings an insider’s understanding of the university’s mission and culture, combined with the external perspective gained through 25 years of global health leadership.” He also noted her strategic vision, business acumen, and understanding of the evolving global health landscape, including challenges like funding diversification and the integration of AI.
A Legacy of Improving Women’s and Family Health
Founded in 1973 as the Johns Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynecology and Obstetrics, Jhpiego has been a driving force in maternal and child health globally. For over five decades, the organization has provided critical care, healthcare training, and support to populations in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Their programs encompass a wide range of essential services, including:
- Maternal, newborn, and child health
- Infectious diseases
- Health systems strengthening
- Primary health care
- Global health security
- Immunizations
- Family planning
- Humanitarian assistance
- Cancer prevention and detection
Bear’s previous work at USAID included leading the development of key health initiatives like the Global Health Initiative and the Ending Preventable Child and Maternal Deaths Action Plan. She has also held leadership positions at Corus International and Abt Global, consistently advancing equitable health outcomes.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
“It is a tremendous honor to join Jhpiego and the Johns Hopkins community at this important moment in global health,” Bear stated. “Jhpiego has an extraordinary legacy of expanding access to high-quality health care for women and families everywhere. I am excited to work alongside Jhpiego’s remarkable staff and partners and look forward to building on the organization’s strong foundation to strengthen and expand Jhpiego’s impact around the world.”
Learn more about Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Jhpiego’s vital work in global health.
