Yara Francis
Biography
Yara Francis is a seasoned communications professional with over 20 years of experience. Fluent in English, French, Spanish, and Arabic, she brings a global perspective to her work. Currently serving as Special Assistant for Policy & Strategy at the Uniformed Services University's Center for Global Health Engagement (CGHE), Ms. Francis is detailed to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs' GHE office. Her role involves advising on strategic policies and plans, with a recent focus on countering misinformation and disinformation in global health security.
Throughout her tenure at the Department of Defense (DoD), Ms. Francis has developed and executed various communication strategies and ensured compliance with DoD and U.S. Government communication standards. Prior to that, as a Senior Communications Advisor at USAID, she implemented communication and knowledge management strategies for health systems strengthening, enhancing internal and external outreach.
In various positions throughout her career, she has managed 30+ team of media analysts, daily news content and implemented online marketing campaigns for a strong social media presence, coordinated special events broadcasts and produced interviews and talk shows. In her experience with various multimedia outlets, Ms. Francis blends her strategic vision with modern communication technologies. Her diverse public and private sector experience and linguistic skills continue to contribute to effective global communication strategies.
Ms. Francis holds a Master of Arts in International Relations from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the Lebanese American University, Beirut, and a Certificate in Strategic Management from the Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies.
Selected Publications: