Marvin B. Figueroa, a seasoned expert in Health and Human Services, has been chosen as the keynote speaker for the College of Public Health’s Degree Celebration on May 11 at Eagle Bank Arena. With a wealth of experience from his time at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Virginia’s Department of Health and Human Resources, Figueroa will share valuable insights with the next generation of leaders.
Figueroa’s professional journey began with his service as the Chief of Staff to United States Senator Laphonza Butler, where he provided strategic counsel to advance health and human services priorities under the Biden-Harris Administration. He later became the Director of the Office of Intergovernmental and External Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where he continued to provide strategic guidance on health and human services issues.
Prior to his federal roles, Figueroa was Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Resources in Virginia under Governor Ralph S. Northam, where he managed a consortium of health and social services agencies that had a significant impact on many Virginians’ lives. His legislative acumen was demonstrated during the 2020 Virginia General Assembly session when he contributed to key healthcare, criminal justice, and equity legislation.
Figueroa’s experience extends beyond his roles in government, having also served as Senior Advisor to Senator Mark R. Warner in the U.S. Senate, where he provided expertise on Medicare, Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, and other healthcare matters. A proud Garifuna, Figueroa holds a Master’s degree from Harvard University, a Bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University, and is an alumnus of prestigious programs like the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, POSSE Foundation
