Baltimore’s administration sees a reshuffling as Mayor Brandon M. Scott announces the return of Dr. Letitia Dzirasa to her former position as Deputy Mayor of Equity, Health, and Human Services, according to a statement released earlier today by the City of Baltimore. Dr. Dzirasa, who brings forth a robust background in healthcare and public service, has previously served the city as Baltimore City Commissioner of Health and has also held the same Deputy Mayor role she is stepping back into.
During her tenure outside of local government, Dr. Dzirasa contributed her skills to Fearless Solutions, a firm known for delivering digital services to government clients. Her work there, focused on Health Innovation, has been instrumental in streamlining healthcare IT projects. With her appointment, Dzirasa reiterated her belief in equitable care, stating via the City of Baltimore, “I’m honored to be reappointed as Deputy Mayor of Health and Human Services by Mayor Scott,” and continued that she remains “committed to advancing health equity, strengthening our public health and social service systems, and working alongside our communities and City leaders to build a healthier, more resilient city.”
Concurrent with Dr. Dzirasa returning to her post, John David “J.D.” Merrill transitions back to his pre-interim position as Deputy Chief of Staff. Merrill oversaw a variety of mayoral offices, including City Schools and the Enoch Pratt Library, during his time as interim Deputy Mayor for Equity, Health, and Human Services. His interim tenure was marked by multiple initiatives, among them launching Baltimore’s first office of Overdose Response and Overdose Cabinet, as well as reimagining YouthStat, a program aimed at engaging city youth…