Biography
Jerome Adams served as the 20th U.S. Surgeon General from 2017 to 2021, shaping digital public health messaging across a range of media platforms. A physician anesthesiologist, Adams focused on preventive care, opioid response strategies, and pandemic risk reduction.
Public Health Leadership
Indiana to Federal Service: Before joining the Trump administration, Adams led the Indiana State Department of Health, overseeing community-focused opioid interventions and HIV prevention programs.
Surgeon General Initiatives: As Surgeon General, he issued national advisories on the opioid epidemic, youth vaping, and naloxone distribution, while coordinating with state officials and faith organizations to promote evidence-based interventions.
Pandemic Communication: During the COVID-19 emergency, Adams appeared across television news, podcasts, and social media to explain mask guidance, vaccine safety, and chronic disease risk factors.
Digital Engagement
Adams maintains an active online presence, sharing wellness resources, highlighting public health research, and supporting historically Black colleges and universities engaged in community medicine. His post-government work at Purdue University continues public health outreach through webinars, podcasts, and local health coalitions.