Seed Global Health Appoints Patrick Fine as Board Chair 

We’re pleased to announce that Patrick Fine has been appointed board chair of Seed Global Health, succeeding Dede Orraca-Cecil, who has completed her term. We are grateful that Dede will remain on our Board. 

This transition comes at a time of growing strain on global health systems, as countries face tightening budgets, rising demand for care, and an unsettled international landscape. This is a moment when it has become clear what will matter most in the years ahead: investing in the people who deliver care.  

Patrick Fine brings decades of experience across global health and international development, including serving as chief executive officer of FHI 360 and in senior leadership roles at the Millenium Challenge Corporation and USAID. As a current member of our Board of Trustees, he steps into the role with deep familiarity with our work and a strong track record of advancing country-led approaches.  

“At this time of profound change in global health, I am honored to serve as the next board chair of an organization that champions values of respect and authentic collaboration, leads with humility, and is making such a positive impact in the countries where it works,” said Patrick Fine. “Countries are being asked to do more with less, while the need for quality care continues to grow. Investing in the skilled health workforce is one of the most direct and effective ways to improve health outcomes now while building stronger systems for the future.”  

During her tenure as board chair, Dede Orraca Cecil guided Seed through a period of growth and sharper strategic focus. Under her leadership, we expanded and deepened our partnerships with governments and health institutions and strengthened our role in advancing the health workforce as a global priority. She will continue to serve on our Board, supporting continuity in leadership and direction.  

“It has been a privilege to serve as board chair during such an important period for Seed,” said Dede Orraca Cecil. “I am proud of what we have accomplished and confident in the organization’s continued impact under Patrick’s leadership.”  

Around the world, access to quality care still depends on access to skilled health workers. We partner with governments, universities, and hospitals to strengthen the capacity of nurses, midwives, and doctors who make health systems work, improving how they are trained and how care is delivered.  

Since 2012, Seed has trained more than 47,000 health workers who are serving communities reaching over 76 million people.  

When skilled health workers are present, lives change.