David A. Kessler, M.D.

Dean David A. Kessler, M.D., received the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Public Welfare Medal in April at the NAS award ceremony in Washington. Kessler was recognized “for his courageous approach to public health issues, including insistence on the validity of drug labeling; protection of the impartiality of review boards; institution of mechanisms for fast-tracking drug approval, especially for orphan drugs and terminal malignancies; implementation of nutrient food labeling, and recognition that the addictive effects of tobacco require a more active intervention on the part of society and government. His legacy as commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration affects the lives of all Americans.” The medal was established to recognize distinguished contributions in the application of science to the public welfare and has been presented since 1914.