Wally Burden has been involved with preparedness since 2001, currently serving as Deputy Director, Local Health Department Services at the Ohio Department of Health.
For over a decade, Burden has also been involved with Project Public Health Ready (PPHR), a criteria-based training and recognition program that helps local health departments (LHDs) develop core public health and emergency preparedness competencies. This program, created by NACCHO and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has recognized over 500 LHDs since 2004.
“Local health departments who are recognized by PPHR are healthier, better prepared, and capable of doing things in a better way,” said Burden.
As a PPHR National Reviewer, Burden spends a lot of time reviewing the plans of LHDs who are applying for PPHR recognition to help assess their level of compliance with the program’s criteria.
“I’ve got a passion for this,” said Burden. “As a reviewer, you have to have an interest in all aspects of preparedness.”
As part of the intensive 18-month program, teams of three reviewers initially evaluate up to three applications from September through December with one in-person meeting to conduct a team review. This review timeline is extended if applicants go through Second-Round submissions.
“The review process provides the opportunity to see how people do things differently,” said Burden. “I always learn something new every time I read a plan.”
“The opportunity to sit down with peers—the camaraderie and socialization—is its own reward. I always have a great time,” said Burden. “Through PPHR, I’ve made great friends from the east to the west coast that I can call on day-to-day.”
In thinking of what advice he would offer to those considering becoming a national reviewer, Burden recommends “being open-minded in your evaluation of what others do” and notes that “relating your feedback in a positive way teaches great communications skills.”
Through Friday, June 27, 2025, PPHR is recruiting national reviewers for the upcoming cycle year. Learn about the benefits of participating and how to get involved.
