Kelly Saldana

Kelly Saldana has a diverse and extensive work experience. Kelly is currently serving as the Vice President, Resilient Health Systems at Abt Associates since July 2023. Prior to this role, they held the position of Vice President Systems Strengthening and Resilience at Abt Associates from March 2022 to July 2023.

Before joining Abt Associates, Kelly worked at USAID for a significant portion of their career. Kelly held the role of Director, Office of Health Systems from December 2016 to March 2022. Kelly led a 30-person office and played a crucial role in building resilient health systems through a $1 billion portfolio. Additionally, they served as the Deputy Director, Office of Health, Infectious Diseases and Nutrition at USAID from September 2011 to December 2016. In this role, they oversaw the implementation of various global health programs and managed a multi-billion-dollar portfolio.

Kelly's work in the field of public health extends beyond USAID. From May 2003 to November 2010, they worked at USAID as the Senior Public Health Advisor/Health Team Leader in the Office of Regional, Sustainable Development. During this time, they directed the country allocation of approximately $175 million per year in health funds and played a vital role in budget and policy setting processes.

Earlier in their career, Kelly served as a Public Health Epidemiologist at the NC Department of Health and Human Services from July 2001 to May 2003. Prior to that, they held the role of Program Manager at the University of Pittsburgh from August 1999 to August 2001. Kelly started their professional journey as a Volunteer in Nicaragua with the US Peace Corps from 1997 to 1999.

Overall, Kelly's work experience showcases their expertise and leadership in the field of public health, with a focus on health systems strengthening, resilience, and international development projects.

Kelly Saldana has a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Affairs from The George Washington University. Kelly also holds a Master's degree in Public Health, International Development, and Latin American Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.