Levine recently made history as America’s first-ever out transgender four-star admiral in any of the country’s eight uniformed services.
She will now serve as the highest-ranking official in the US Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps. The role will see the 63-year-old lead 6,000 Public Health Service officers after being appointed by President Joe Biden.
During a swearing-in speech on 19 October, Dr. Levine said she hopes her “momentous” appointment will pave the way for a “more inclusive future.” “May this appointment today be the first of many more to come, as we create a diverse and more inclusive future,” she added.