Elizabeth “Liz” Nazarian was selected as one of only three recipients of the Office of Public Health’s 2026 Excellence in Public Health Award. The award was announced during the October All Hands Webinar. Liz was nominated for her strong commitment to equity and inclusion through research and public health laboratory leadership that directly supports underserved and at-risk populations.
With 24 years of service at the Wadsworth Center, she brings extensive experience and institutional knowledge to her work. She leads testing at the Wadsworth Center’s Antimicrobial Resistance Laboratory Network Regional Laboratory and has contributed to CDC-supported surveillance programs since 2016. Her work supports the detection and monitoring of drug-resistant pathogens that can disproportionately affect vulnerable patient populations. By generating high-quality laboratory data that informs treatment decisions and public health interventions, Liz helps address disparities associated with infectious diseases and unequal access to effective therapies.
In previous laboratory roles, Liz played a key role in Legionella testing and environmental surveillance efforts that help prevent outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease, particularly in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other congregate settings serving higher-risk populations. Liz also fosters an inclusive workplace by encouraging collaboration, sharing expertise across disciplines, and mentoring staff and trainees with respect and professionalism. Her leadership promotes an environment in which diverse perspectives are valued and all team members are supported in their professional