Suffolk Reporter

Executive Vice President for Stony Brook Medicine, William A. Wertheim, MD, has announced an expansion of Judi Brown Clarke's role to include responsibilities aimed at integrating health equity principles into research, policy, and practice.

Her new title, chief health equity officer & vice president and chief diversity officer, signifies this broadened scope and a continued commitment to fostering equity and inclusion within Stony Brook Medicine and the university.

"In this expanded role, Dr. Brown Clarke will lead transformative efforts to embed health equity principles across key initiatives, with a particular focus on the intersection of climate change and health disparities," Wertheim stated in his December 20 message.

Wertheim added that Brown Clarke would advocate for initiatives prioritizing vulnerable populations in research and healthcare solutions. This includes ensuring equitable access to resources and interventions while collaborating with campus and community partners to develop strategies for recruiting and retaining diverse students, faculty, and staff as part of advancing the institution’s diversity and inclusion plan.

"This expanded role underscores Dr. Brown Clarke’s exceptional leadership and the critical importance of addressing health disparities in our research and care delivery," Wertheim noted. "Her vision and dedication will continue to shape our efforts to promote a more equitable and inclusive environment across all facets of our institution."

A newly created Office of Health Equity and Climate Medicine Research is set to open on January 20. It will focus on advancing research in health equity and climate medicine through collaboration and innovation. The search for the director of this new office is currently underway.