Jamila H. Jones, Ph.D, MPH
Jamila H. Jones, PhD, MPH is a strategic communications executive and public health leader with more than 20 years of experience advising senior leaders and guiding complex, mission-driven organizations through transformation, crisis, and growth.
She has held senior leadership roles within one of the nation’s leading public health agencies, including twice serving as Deputy Director for Communications, the agency’s second-highest communications role. In this capacity, she led a team of more than 350 professionals and oversaw a $150 million communications enterprise spanning public affairs, internal communications, digital engagement, and communication science.
Dr. Jones specializes in executive messaging, organizational storytelling, change communication, and strategic alignment. She partners with leaders to clarify vision, translate complex policy and technical information into actionable communication, and align teams around clear, consistent narratives. Her work strengthens internal communication systems, builds trust, and equips organizations to operate effectively in high-stakes environments.
In addition to her executive leadership experience, Dr. Jones serves as Adjunct Faculty at Meharry Medical College’s School of Global Public Health and the University of Phoenix, where she teaches graduate-level courses in leadership, systems thinking, and professional practice. She is deeply committed to developing leaders who can integrate equity, strategy, and communication in complex systems.
As Founder of Rapport Communications and Strategy, she partners with nonprofit organizations, foundations, public agencies, and health institutions to strengthen leadership communication, refine strategic positioning, and build sustainable communication frameworks that elevate both culture and impact.
Dr. Jones holds a PhD in Public Health, a Master of Public Health, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Administration. She is known for bringing clarity to complexity and helping leaders move confidently from strategy to execution.
