Robert A. Whitney facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert A. Whitney
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| Surgeon General of the United States Acting |
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| In office July 1, 1993 – September 8, 1993 |
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| President | Bill Clinton |
| Preceded by | Antonia Novello |
| Succeeded by | Joycelyn Elders |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 27, 1935 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA |
Robert Arthur Whitney, Jr. was born on July 27, 1935. He is an American veterinarian and a leader in public health. He worked as the acting Surgeon General of the United States for a short time in 1993. This important job means he was a top doctor for the whole country.
Contents
Robert A. Whitney's Journey
Early Life and Education
Robert Whitney was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He loved animals and decided to study veterinary medicine. In 1959, he earned his degree as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Oklahoma State University. This means he became a doctor for animals.
Later, he continued his studies. In 1965, he received a master's degree in pharmacology from Ohio State University. Pharmacology is the study of how medicines affect the body.
A Career in Public Health
Robert Whitney spent most of his career working for the United States Public Health Service (USPHS). This is a group of health professionals who work to protect and improve the health of all Americans.
Before joining the USPHS, he worked for the U.S. Army. He helped train people in laboratory animal medicine. He even served for a year in South Vietnam in 1970. There, he led a team focused on animal health.
In 1992, he became the Deputy Surgeon General. This was a very important role, helping the main Surgeon General. He also held many leadership positions at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) starting in 1971. The NIH is a big part of the government that does medical research. From 1989 to 1992, he directed a special center at NIH that helped with research resources.
Leading the Nation's Health
From July to September 1993, Dr. Whitney served as the acting Surgeon General of the United States. This meant he was temporarily the top doctor in the country. He helped guide health policies for everyone.
He was also the chief veterinary officer for the Public Health Service from 1985 to 1989. In this role, he made sure that animal health was a key part of public health efforts.
After Public Service
Dr. Whitney retired from the USPHS in 1994. After retiring, he helped start a group called "Earthspan." This non-profit organization uses new technology to help protect animals, nature, and the environment. He was the president of Earthspan until he retired from that role in 2008.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Whitney has received several important awards for his work. He earned the U.S. Public Health Service Distinguished Service Medal. This award is given for outstanding contributions to public health. He also received the Legion of Merit for his service in the U.S. Army.
