Lauren Witbart

Strategic Communicator | Award-Winning | 15+ Yrs

Current roleSenior Health Communication Specalist Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Illnesses · since Apr 2025
Government service1yrCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

About

A highly accomplished Senior Communication Specialist with 15+ years of experience, driving impactful communication strategies to enhance public health awareness and engagement. Expertise in translating complex information, leading teams, and delivering award-winning campaigns that build trust and achieve organizational goals. A proven leader with a strong track record in strategic planning, project management, risk communication, and social media strategy. Holds Master’s of Education and Education Specialist degrees in marriage and family counseling and a Master's Degree in Public Health from the University of Florida. https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-witbart-m-ed-ed-s-mph-cwws-75287518/

Roles

Apr 2025–Present
Current role

Senior Health Communication Specalist

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Illnesses

·       Team Leadership

o   Spearheaded the formation of a new team, defining roles, establishing feedback loops, and formalizing SOPs, resulting in improved team cohesion, transparency, and collaboration, and generating exceptional positive feedback.

o   Enhanced NCIRD's mission and the CDC’s brand by initiating monthly training and cross-training programs that streamlined digital content processes and improved interdepartmental collaboration. Guided team members in industry best practices and effective internal communication strategies to support these initiatives.

·       Strategic Communication

o   Led the development and execution of the award-winning fall & winter virus season campaign, achieving millions of views and earning the 2024 Plain Language Award & CDC Health Literacy Hero Award for clarity and impact.

o   Developed and implemented a center-wide social media and newsletter strategy using behavior change models and audience research to enhance messaging and audience engagement.

o   Directed a web usability improvement project, reducing 100+ websites/10,000+ webpages by 50% while ensuring compliance with digital best practices and effective contract management across 12 offices.