Michelle Larson, PhD
About Michelle Larson, PhD
Michelle Larson, PhD, serves as the Interim Deputy Commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Health, bringing extensive experience in public health preparedness and strategic planning. She has held various academic and administrative roles, advocating for effective government initiatives to enhance health outcomes.
Work at Minnesota Department of Health
Michelle Larson currently serves as the Interim Deputy Commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Health, a position she has held since 2023. Her previous roles within the department include Assistant Commissioner to Health Operations from 2022 to 2023, Director of the Office of Medical Cannabis from 2014 to 2019, and Director of the Health Regulation Division from 2019 to 2021. Larson also worked as a Program Planning Supervisor for the Resource Management & Tracking Unit from 2006 to 2010 and as a Strategic National Stockpile Planner from 2004 to 2006. Her extensive tenure at the department highlights her commitment to public health initiatives.
Education and Expertise
Michelle Larson holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Organizational Leadership & Policy Development from the University of Minnesota, completed between 2012 and 2016. She also earned a Master of Public Affairs (MPA) with a focus on Public Health from the same institution in 2007. Additionally, Larson has obtained multiple certificates in Program Evaluation, Public Health Preparedness, Response & Recovery, and Quality Improvement from the University of Minnesota. Her Bachelor of Science degree in Corporate & Community Health Promotion was awarded by the University of Wisconsin-Superior in 1995.
Background
Before her current role at the Minnesota Department of Health, Michelle Larson worked as an Instructor at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls for four months in 2018 and at the University of Roehampton Online from 2017 to 2018. Since 2021, she has also been an Assistant Professor at Herzing University. Larson's background reflects a strong foundation in both public health and education, emphasizing her commitment to teaching and mentorship.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Michelle Larson has demonstrated a commitment to strategic planning and public health preparedness. She advocates for inclusive government initiatives that effectively utilize resources to improve health outcomes. Larson emphasizes leadership development and seeks to engage with strong leaders and mentors to foster continuous learning. Her work in various leadership roles at the Minnesota Department of Health has contributed to the advancement of public health initiatives in the state.