Andrew L. Garrett ’90 has distinguished himself through his extraordinary contributions to prehospital care and disaster response, marking a career defined by service and leadership.
After graduating in 1990, Garrett pursued his medical education at Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine, followed by a residency in pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He further specialized with a master’s degree in public health and emergency preparedness from the Chan Medical School at the University of Massachusetts, also completing a fellowship in emergency medical services and disaster medicine. Garrett is still a certified paramedic today.
Garrett has been a pivotal figure in emergency response, with nearly two decades of leadership in numerous disasters including Hurricane Katrina, the 2010 Haiti earthquake, and the COVID-19 pandemic. His expertise spans pediatrics, disaster medicine, and emergency medical services, making him a versatile and invaluable asset in crisis situations. He embodies the spirit of Carleton, combining diverse medical expertise with compassionate service, and inspires those around him.
His professional journey includes significant roles such as faculty at the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University as well as deputy chief medical officer, and then director, of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Disaster Medical System. He also served as director in global health security and biodefense policy for the White House National Security Council, advising on critical health security issues under both the Obama and Trump administrations.
In 2018, Garrett transitioned to academic leadership as an associate professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, where he oversees degree programs in emergency medical services and global leadership in disaster response. His commitment to education is evident in his mentorship and teaching, influencing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Garrett’s dedication has been recognized with numerous awards, including the U.S. Surgeon General’s Civilian Service Medal and the President’s Volunteer Service Award, underscoring his impact on a national and global scale. He has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to lead, innovate, and make a lasting difference in the world.