By love-89.com Dr. Ashwin Vasan, the Commissioner of the City Health Department, announced in an email to his team on the morning of October 15 that he will be resigning earlier than planned, effective October 18, a move that comes several months ahead of his original timeline. Sources indicate that Vasan’s decision to step down is due to “pressing family issues.”
Having submitted his resignation at the end of September, Vasan’s departure coincides with ongoing federal investigations into Mayor Eric Adams and his administration. While several key officials within the city government have resigned in connection with these federal inquiries, Vasan has not been implicated in any investigation. Initially, he had pledged to remain in his role until early next year to focus on family obligations.
However, in a statement released on the evening of October 14, Vasan acknowledged his deep love for the work but noted that family matters had become “urgent,” prompting his decision to leave sooner than expected.
He mentioned that he has collaborated with Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer and Deputy Mayor Anne Williams-Isom to create a transition plan that ensures the continued operation of the Health Department.
According to city officials, Dr. Michelle Morse, the Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Commissioner for Health Equity and Community Health Centers, will serve as the acting commissioner while the search for Vasan’s permanent successor continues.
Mayor Adams expressed his regret over Vasan’s early departure but emphasized his respect for the decision to prioritize family. He reassured the public that the department’s functions will remain stable under Morse’s interim leadership.
Vasan’s resignation comes during a tumultuous period marked by frequent changes within the senior ranks of the Adams administration. In the past month alone, at least seven top officials have left their positions, including Vasan. Additionally, Thomas Donlon, the acting chief of the New York City Police Department, has recently confirmed his departure after only a few weeks in the role.
Since taking on the role of Health Commissioner in 2022, Vasan has led the response to major public health challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and monkeypox, with a significant focus on adolescent mental health concerns.
Dr. Morse was appointed as the city’s first Chief Medical Officer by former Mayor Bill de Blasio in February 2021. An internist by training, she has been instrumental in coordinating efforts between the health department and clinical practitioners throughout the city while also serving as an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School.