The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) today announced that Dr. David Rose will be departing his role as Director to assume a new position as North/Northwest Regional Director at the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). His last day with AHD will be November 9.

During his tenure, Dr. Rose guided the department through some of its most challenging years, including leading Alexandria out of the COVID-19 pandemic and the local mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) surge. Under his leadership, AHD strengthened its role as a trusted community health partner while advancing innovative programs and providing high-quality healthcare services.

“I’m so grateful for my time at AHD,” said Dr. Rose, “and for what I have learned from my staff and Alexandria community members about what it takes to create the conditions for healthier communities. I’ll take these lessons into my regional work, where I’ll continue to support AHD and the people we serve.” 

Dr. Rose championed key community initiatives such as the Healthy Homes Initiative, expanding efforts to address environmental health risks that impact Alexandrians' health in their homes. He also oversaw a significant achievement within AHD’s clinical services: earning a perfect score in the nursing division’s Title X audit. Additionally, under Dr. Rose, AHD opened a new Teen Wellness Center clinic at the Alexandria City High School Minnie Howard Campus. These accomplishments came despite national funding constraints and major shifts in the country’s public health landscape. 

“We are grateful for Dr. Rose’s leadership and commitment to improving health for all Alexandrians,” said City Manager James Parajon.  “His contributions have strengthened our community, and we look forward to our city’s continued partnership with the Virginia Department of Health with Dr. Rose as a regional director.”

AHD’s Deputy Director Dr. Anne Gaddy will oversee departmental operations while VDH conducts a search for a new director. Dr. Gaddy previously led AHD as interim director during the COVID-19 pandemic. Current AHD efforts like the ongoing Community Health Improvement Plan process and the adoption of an electronic health record system will continue as planned. 

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you, please email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.

For media requests only, contact Eve Elliott, Alexandria Health Department Communications Officer at Eve.Elliott@vdh.virginia.gov or 804.467.5160.