Erik L. Carlton, DrPH, MS, CPH, FACHE is Interim Dean, Senior Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Director of Graduate Studies, and Associate Professor of Health Policy, Management and Leadership at the West Virginia University School of Public Health. Dr. Carlton has nearly two decades of leadership experience in both the private and public sectors; and has consulted numerous hospital systems, health departments, and other healthcare organizations and businesses. His current research focuses on psychological safety in healthcare organizations and in higher education. The author of three books, Dr. Carlton has a strong presence in global healthcare leadership development, having trained clinical and administrative leaders from nearly 60 countries. In addition to healthcare and public health leadership, Erik has developed expertise in behavioral health, women’s health, and rural and Appalachian health. He holds a Doctor of Public Health degree in Health Services Management and a Master of Science degree in Family Studies with an emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy, both from the University of Kentucky; and an Executive Certificate in Public Leadership from Harvard University.