The CDC Leaders

"Mystery creates wonder and wonder is the basis of man's desire to understand"

- Neil Armstrong

Burma Burch, MSA, BBA

Associate Director for Management, Office of the Director (OD)

Burma Burch was appointed Associate Director for Management, Office of the Director in December 2007 with the challenge to streamline the OD Executive Management Office and its functions. Her responsibilities include OD budget oversight; leadership meeting coordination; oversight for congressional, diplomatic, and other VIP visits; coordination of the Advisory Committee to the Director; and administrative support for executive staff.

Ms. Burch began her CDC career in 1978 working in personnel management. She then worked in the immunization program where she learned to appreciate the dynamics and power of communities, participated in the effort to eradicate smallpox, and addressed many issues associated with the emergence of Legionnaires' disease.

Ms. Burch also worked in the National Center for Infectious Diseases. She was CDC’s Committee Management Officer; served as the Acting Deputy Director, Management Analysis and Services Office; and she played a significant role in the implementation of the Futures Initiative, which launched CDC’s effort to better meet the ever changing challenges of public health. Prior to her current appointment, Ms. Burch served as Special Projects Advisor for the Office of the Director, CDC.

Ms. Burch received her BBA from Georgia State University and her MSA from Central Michigan University. She enjoys spending time with her family and three hound dogs—Bella Ruth, Basil Mae, and Bud Row.