White House Names Georgetown Faculty Member 'Champion of Change'

Georgetown faculty member, Dr. Laura Anderko, is one of 11 people the White House will honor today for being a "Champion of Change."

The champions are recognized for their efforts to protect public health in a changing climate, according to a press release from the White House.

“I am honored to be acknowledged for my work in raising awareness and advocating for policy changes that will protect the public’s health in light of climate changes,” Anderko said in a statement.

Anderko, a resident of Annandale, Va., is the the Robert and Kathleen Scanlon Endowed Chair in Values Based Health Care at Georgetown University School of Nursing & Health Studies.

"From doctors and educators helping communities cope with poor air quality worsened by carbon pollution, to a patient who has suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease advocating for clean air protections, each of these Champions are leading the way on climate and health," according to the press release.

Anderko is being recognized for her leadership in both fighting and preparing for the impacts of climate change on health. She is known for her prevention work through partnerships with organizations like the American Lung Association. 

"I am grateful to the American Lung Association and Health Care Without Harm for nominating me and to Georgetown University for supporting my work,” she said in a statement.

The event can be seen live online at 10:45 a.m. (July 9): www.whitehouse.gov/live.