Direct Relief today announced the appointment of Tom Strickland to its Board of Directors. Strickland joins Direct Relief’s board at a time of significant growth for the organization’s global humanitarian response efforts, which last fiscal year included provision of essential medications, a broad range of medical supplies, and financial support in response to requests from healthcare providers and other local organizations across 88 countries and 55 U.S. states and territories.
An esteemed attorney and conservationist, Strickland served as the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks from 2009 to 2011. In this role, he oversaw the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service, leading efforts in habitat restoration, species protection, and public lands expansion. Strickland joined Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr in 2011 and was a partner in the firm’s Regulatory and Government Affairs, Litigation/Controversy and Securities Departments until 2024. His practice focused on a range of matters at the intersection of law, business, and government policy, including government enforcement cases, Congressional and internal investigations, corporate governance, and high-stakes crisis management matters.
Prior to his work at the Interior Department, Strickland was appointed executive vice president and chief legal officer of UnitedHealth Group, a diversified health and well-being company serving more than 70 million individuals nationwide. At UnitedHealth, he managed an in-house team of 200 attorneys and a nationwide team of outside counsel. He was responsible for all legal, regulatory and compliance matters and implemented several corporate governance initiatives.
Strickland served as the United States Attorney for the District of Colorado from 1999 to 2001, where he handled significant environmental and civil rights cases. Strickland is known for his work in advancing conservation policy and his commitment to sustainable resource management. He has been a trusted advisor and leader in public policy and legal circles, with a focus on protecting America’s natural heritage.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tom to the Direct Relief’s Board of Directors, and look forward to benefitting from his experience in public service and leadership,” said Mark Linehan, Direct Relief’s Board Chair. “Tom’s expertise and acumen compliment the organization’s mission to deliver medical aid to improve the health and lives of people in need around the world.”
Direct Relief’s Board of Directors is comprised of accomplished individuals from various industries and sectors, all of whom contribute their expertise to the organization’s mission. The addition of Strickland strengthens the organization’s leadership as it continues to expand its reach and impact in response to global health crises and disasters.
“I am honored to join the board of Direct Relief, an organization that is making a tangible difference in people’s lives every day,” said Strickland. “I look forward to working with my fellow board members and the dedicated team at Direct Relief to further their vital mission and help bring health and hope to those who need it most.”
The Direct Relief Board of Directors may serve up to three three-year terms.
A full list of Direct Relief’s Board and leadership is available here.
