FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2023
Contact: Shannon Doolin
sdoolin@awhonn.org
AWHONN CEO Jonathan Webb Announced as New Obama Foundation United States Leader
August 1, 2023, Washington, DC – Today, the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN) announced that AWHONN CEO Jonathan Webb, MPH, MBA, is among the first cohort of 100 emerging changemakers selected to participate in the Obama Foundation’s Leaders USA program. The Obama Leaders program is a six-month virtual program that supports and connects emerging leaders in the United States, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Europe through a values-based leadership framework inspired by the ideals and legacy of President and Mrs. Obama.
Chosen from a highly competitive pool of applications, Webb was selected to join the program for his career-long commitment to public health, focus on elevating community voices, and driving toward equitable health outcomes through system change and strategic collaboration. Through the Obama Leaders Program, Webb is ready to build his skills and expand his impact across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
The inaugural cohort of United States “Obama Leaders” is composed of values-driven changemakers from every corner of the country. Hailing from 37 states; Washington, D.C.; American Samoa; Guam; and five tribal nations, these Obama Leaders are united by their passion for building a stronger, more sustainable, and more inclusive world.
Webb has spent nearly two decades in the public health space spanning local, state and national levels, promoting equity, improving community health outcomes, addressing the social determinants of health, and tackling a number of pressing public health concerns including: maternal and infant mortality, childhood obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. His professional experience includes service in support of two local health departments and several local and national nonprofit organizations. Webb also serves as a member of the March of Dimes’ National Advisory Committee for the Mom Baby Action Network, a Public Member and Family Leadership Committee Member of the American Board of Pediatrics Foundation, a Board member for Nurse Family Partnerships and Child First, and a Steering Committee Member of Pritzer Prenatal to Three Initiative. His service has prioritized the centering of community voices and lived experiences while creating environments that support equitable care and health outcomes for all. Additionally, he is an advocate for women, children, pregnant and birthing people, and children and youth with special health care needs. Webb is a proud son, husband and father of two beautiful children.
“We are excited to welcome these 100 changemakers from across the United States into the Obama Foundation family,” said Valerie Jarrett, CEO of the Obama Foundation. “Our newest Obama Leaders are already making a difference in their communities and are ready to take their work to the next level. They embody the values of President and Mrs. Obama, and their impactful work will create positive change in communities across the country.”
The Leaders USA program offers participants a unique and comprehensive experience, including a values-driven leadership curriculum, action labs focused on strengthening democratic institutions and culture in the U.S., community groups for fostering constructive dialogue in a polarized environment, and one-on-one support to help tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time. As part of the six-month program, Webb will convene virtually each week with the United States Obama Leaders cohort for interactive sessions designed to help them drive change by honing their leadership skills, building deep relationships with their peers, and engaging with thought leaders and members of the Obama Foundation community. Additionally, Webb will also have an opportunity to engage with President Obama, participate in various virtual experiences and special events, including one-on-one conversations with experienced mentors in the Foundation’s global network.
To learn more about Jonathan Webb and the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, visit jonathanwebb.org or awhonn.org.
To learn more about the program and the individuals who make up the inaugural cohort, visit obama.org/programs/leaders/usa/.
