Dear colleagues and friends,
I am saddened to share the news that Dr Annik Rouillon, our former Executive Director and one of the foremost leaders in 20th century public health, has passed away.
Dr Rouillon was an inspiring figure whose legacy permeates The Union. She joined The Union in 1956, and over the next 36 years she went on to serve as both Director of Scientific Activities and Executive Director before her retirement in 1992.
Dr Rouillon’s collaboration with Dr Karel Styblo on the development of the DOTS strategy continues to shape tuberculosis efforts today and has contributed to saving the lives of 37 million people worldwide. Her tireless advocacy for the DOTS strategy led to its adoption by the World Health Organization as the standard public health approach to TB worldwide.
Dr Rouillon’s contributions were captured in a beautiful short documentary film, Annik Rouillon: une Vie Contre la Tuberculose (Annik Rouillon: A Life Against Tuberculosis).
Please join me remembering Dr Rouillon’s incredible life and legacy. I ask that we each honour her by redoubling our efforts on behalf of the causes about which she cared so deeply.
Sincerely,
José Luis Castro
Executive Director