Bruce Gellin

Bruce Gellin’s life is like a game of dominoes, with The Morehead launching the ripple.

Let’s start at the end. Gellin currently directs the National Vaccine Program, which coordinates the country’s immunization efforts. He got that job, in part, because of his work with the Rockefeller Foundation helping to create a children’s vaccine program for the developing world.

That opportunity came through his study of infectious diseases as disease detective with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), with stints in Atlanta and Alaska. He got that position after studying in Asia on a prestigious Luce Scholarship during a year off from medical school. And how did he land a Luce? Gellin largely credits The Morehead.

“Around people who know about these things, The Morehead opened up horizons,” Gellin says. “The Morehead tag on your name means a lot to other programs.”

The Morehead also introduced Gellin to UNC. Upon accepting the scholarship, Gellin discovered the University’s interdisciplinary studies program, providing him a chance to combine several fields of interest — biology, public health, anthropology, and evolution — into one major.

“I was able to find a comfortable home in a large place,” Gellin said. “It was an opportunity to take advantage of the pieces UNC offered.”

Today, Gellin encourages the Morehead Domino Effect. He’s served on the Central Committee. And when Moreheads call to talk about public health careers, Gellin always makes time to chat.

“If any Morehead called me, I would make time to talk to them,” he says. “That to me is an important part of The Morehead.”