Dr. Estella Z. Jones: Pioneering Excellence in Veterinary Leadership and Public Health"
In the realms of veterinary medicine, public health, and emergency management, Rear Admiral (Retired) Estella Z. Jones stands as an exemplary figure, breaking barriers and shaping the landscape of healthcare. With a diverse career spanning several pivotal roles, she has become a trailblazer, notably as the first minority female veterinarian in the U.S. Public Health Service to achieve the rank of Rear Admiral.
As the Assistant Surgeon General at the U.S. Public Health Service, Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), RDML Jones has played a key role in safeguarding global health. Her responsibilities include providing strategic and executive direction on programs combatting health threats and ensuring the availability of critical medical countermeasures.
One of RDML Jones's significant contributions is her role in establishing sustainable countermeasure programs, fostering collaboration between the FDA and institutions like the National Interagency Confederation for Biological Research. Her innovative approach includes creating accredited training courses with the University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston National Laboratories, offering hands-on, contemporary, virtual-reality training in data quality and integrity for students and stakeholders.
Beyond her achievements at the FDA, RDML Jones has demonstrated exceptional commitment to animal welfare. Serving as the Co-Chair of FDA's Animal Welfare Council and Chairperson for the NIAID's Biosafety Level-4 NIH NIAID IRF Animal Care and Use Committee, she has been a tireless advocate for ethical and responsible treatment of animals in research.
Her academic journey includes a dual faculty appointment at Houston's Baylor College of Medicine, where she contributed to groundbreaking discoveries alongside esteemed figures like Dr. Alan Bradley and the late Dr. Charles Montgomery. RDML Jones's wide-ranging experiences also extend to her service with the Department of Defense and the Pentagon, contributing to joint service parity policies and disaster reduction efforts.
RDML Jones's commitment to education and mentorship is evident in her off-duty hours. She dedicates time to mentoring aspiring veterinarians and training her registered service dogs for community service, particularly in visiting chronically ill patients. Recognized for her achievements, she was awarded the 2021 Career Achievement Award by the Emma Willard School Alumnae Association.
In the face of public health emergencies, RDML Jones has been at the forefront, deploying for events such as the 9/11 attacks, the 2001 Anthrax attacks, Hurricane Katrina, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her selfless service has earned her prestigious awards, including a Distinguished Service Medal, a Presidential Citation, and the HHS Secretary's Badge.
As RDML Jones reflects on her remarkable journey, she emphasizes the importance of humility, appreciation for life, and the duty to share opportunities for success with others. Her dedication to being the best version of oneself, paying it forward, and standing on the shoulders of giants is not just a mantra but a guiding principle that continues to inspire those around her.
