NBPHE Welcomes David Buys as New Board Chair

The National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE) is pleased to announce that David R. Buys, PhD, MSPH, CPH, FGSA, Associate Vice Provost for Health Sciences and Interim Head of Campus at Mississippi State University-Meridian, has been elected Chair of the NBPHE Board of Directors. Dr. Buys will serve a two-year term guiding NBPHE as we continue our mission to advance the public health profession through certification.

Dr. Buys is a respected leader in research, education, and workforce development, and steps into the role at a crucial moment for public health.

“It is a privilege to step into this role at a pivotal time for public health,” said Dr. Buys. “NBPHE’s work to uphold rigorous standards through certification strengthens not only our profession, but also the health and security of the communities we serve.”

NBPHE also extends our deep gratitude to Paul Halverson, DrPH, FACHE, CPH, who has completed his term as Chair. Recently named Dean of the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health, Dr. Halverson provided steady leadership during a time of significant change.

We also recognize Richard Kurz, PhD, Dean Emeritus at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, who is concluding his service on the Board but will remain engaged through NBPHE’s Publications and Research Committee as well as the Certification Committee.

“We are grateful for the dedicated service of Dr. Halverson and Dr. Kurz, whose leadership has expanded the scope and impact of certification,” said Allison Foster, MBA, CAE, CPH, President of NBPHE. “At the same time, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. David Buys as our new Chair. His expertise, vision, and commitment to strengthening the workforce will help guide NBPHE as we build on this momentum and continue to grow.” With Dr. Buys as Chair, NBPHE’s Board of Directors remains committed to advancing certification as a unifying standard for the public health profession.