Dr. William Schaffner is a towering figure in American public health whose career has spanned over five decades of infectious disease prevention, vaccine advocacy, and public communication. He currently serves as a Professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, where his work has centered on bridging clinical science with effective public health policy and education.
In 2025, Dr. Schaffner received the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation David E. Rogers Award, a prestigious honor recognizing a medical faculty member who has made major contributions to public health and health care.
Dr. Schaffner’s career began with a two-year commission in the U.S. Public Health Service as an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — a formative role that shaped his lifelong focus on disease prevention and epidemiology. Over the years, he has been a trusted expert on vaccination and communicable diseases, helping the public and policymakers understand complex health issues with clarity and compassion.
A significant part of his legacy is his 42-year involvement with the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), where he helped improve vaccine access and administration for both children and adults, particularly in underserved communities.
Dr. Schaffner’s research contributions are vast, with more than 600 published studies, reviews, and book chapters that span epidemiology, infection control, and immunization strategy. His scientific work has influenced national policy — from changes in antibiotic use to pivotal evidence on safety standards in clinical settings.
Beyond research, Dr. Schaffner’s ability to translate scientific evidence into understandable guidance has made him a go-to voice for the media, professional associations, and public health institutions, especially during crises such as pandemics and outbreaks. His career exemplifies how expert communication, grounded in science, can protect public health and save lives.
