Susan Monarez is an American microbiologist and public health leader recognized for her contributions to health innovation, vaccine safety, and her guidance of the CDC during challenging times.
| Common Name | Susan Monarez |
| Full Name | Susan Patricia Coller Monarez (née Coller) |
| Age | 50 years old |
| Date of Birth | November 6, 1974 |
| Gender | Female |
| Occupation | Microbiologist, Public Health Leader, Researcher |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth | $4 million |
Table of Contents
Susan Monarez Biography
Susan Patricia Coller Monarez (née Coller), born on November 6, 1974, is an American microbiologist and public health leader. She is best known for her work in health innovation, ethical use of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare, and addressing health disparities. She briefly served as Acting Director and later as the confirmed Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2025. Her professional journey reflects her passion for science, public service, and protecting communities from public health threats.
Susan’s Educational Background
Susan Monarez grew up in rural Wisconsin, where her early experiences shaped her commitment to public health. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her doctoral research focused on infectious diseases affecting low- and middle-income countries. She later completed postdoctoral studies in infectious disease and immunology at Stanford University School of Medicine, further deepening her expertise in global health.
Susan Career
Monarez’s career began in academic research on diseases like African sleeping sickness and toxoplasmosis. She transitioned into public service as a Science and Technology Policy Fellow and then held various leadership roles across U.S. government agencies:
- Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA): Science and policy advisor (2006–2009).
- Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency (HSARPA): Led innovation in science and security (2009–2013).
- White House Office of Science and Technology Policy & National Security Council: Assistant Director for National Health Security and International Affairs (2014–2016).
- Department of Homeland Security: Deputy Assistant Secretary for Strategy and Data Analytics (2016–2018).
- Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA): Founding Director of the Office of Planning, Analysis, and Evaluation (2018–2022).
- Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H): Deputy Director from 2023, focusing on AI in healthcare, mental health interventions, maternal health disparities, and organ donation systems.
In January 2025, she became Acting Director of the CDC and was confirmed as the permanent Director in July 2025. She was the first CDC Director without a medical degree since 1953, holding a Ph.D. instead. Her tenure ended in August 2025 following disputes over vaccine policies.
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Susan Awards
Monarez is widely recognized for her contributions to public health policy, national health security, and innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Her reputation earned her senior roles across multiple government agencies and international collaborations.
Susan Testimony
After her removal from the CDC, Monarez gave a powerful testimony before the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP). She warned about the risks of weakening vaccine policies and the danger of increased outbreaks of preventable diseases. During the hearing, Senator Tim Kaine apologized to her for doubting her “backbone” during the confirmation process, acknowledging her courage and professionalism in the face of intense political pressure.
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Susan Age
Susan Monarez was born on November 6, 1974, which makes her 50 years old in 2024 and 51 in 2025.
Susan Religion
Her religious beliefs have not been publicly disclosed. She is best known for her professional contributions rather than her personal faith.
Susan’s Personal Life
Susan Monarez grew up in a hardworking family in Wisconsin. Her father was initially a dairy farmer who later became a police officer after losing his farm to a disease outbreak. Her mother worked various jobs, including in factories, offices, and as a librarian. These experiences gave Monarez a strong sense of resilience and public service.
Susan Husband
Susan Monarez has not shared any public information about her husband or marital status, as she chooses to keep this part of her personal life private.
Susan Parents
Her parents were influential in shaping her character and work ethic. Her father moved from dairy farming to law enforcement, while her mother supported the family through clerical and factory work and later as a librarian.
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Susan Net Worth
Susan Monarez’s net worth is estimated at around US $4 million, reflecting her long and distinguished career in senior government and health leadership roles, as well as her dedication to public service.
Susan’s Social Media Handles
Susan Monarez keeps a low public profile online and focuses mainly on her professional work. However, she has an official presence on:
- X (Twitter): @CDCMonarez.
