Jessica Backman-Levy is an internationally recognized expert on gender integration and gender transformative programming, with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of gender, health, and global development. As an Associate Professor of Practice at Washington University in St. Louis and Senior Associate at Iris Group, she has led high-impact initiatives with major donors like the Gates Foundation, USAID, and UN Women, advancing gender as a strategic focus in global development. A lead contributor to The Lancet Series on Gender Norms and Health, Dr. Levy’s scholarship has redefined how public health interventions measure gender integration and equality outcomes. She co-founded the Chroma Collective, a network of leading donor organizations driving gender equality efforts development and chairs the Planned Parenthood Great Rivers Action Board. Her interdisciplinary work bridges research, policy, and practice, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex global health challenges and mentor the next generation of public health leaders.
