2013 President's Message

“Our vision is that our society will make the healthy choices the easy choices for every family, school, neighborhood, and community.” —Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, president (2003–2017), RWJF

Download annual message (PDF)

In Risa Lavizzo-Mourey’s 10th annual president’s message in 2013—she recollects the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s (RWJF) role in addressing the major health and health care issues of the past decade—and looks ahead to what our vision of a Culture of Health will mean for America. RWJF has and will continue to tackle daunting issues, such as inequalities in patient care and outcomes; health insurance coverage; social/environmental obstacles to good health; and policies, priorities, and cost of health care.

Our founder, General Johnson, charged the Foundation to play our part as a change agent to improve the health and health care of all Americans. With this as our continuing guiding principle, we have accomplished much in the past. And as the world changes more quickly than ever before, now is the time to set bold, new aspirations. Our new vision for RWJF and the nation is a vibrant, inclusive American Culture of Health in which:

  • Being healthy and staying healthy is valued by our entire society;
  • Individuals and families have the means and the opportunity to make healthy choices;
  • Business, government, individuals, and organizations work together to foster healthy communities and lifestyles;
  • No one is excluded, with everyone having access to affordable, efficient, quality health care;
  • Good health flourishes across geographic, demographic, and social sectors.

With advanced technology and social media on our side, societal change is occurring across sectors. Business, communities, education, and others are embracing the notion of a Culture of Health—through fostering healthy living; wellness programs; alternate fitness classes on campuses; and online pinboards that showcase healthy options. As increased awareness sparks demand for change, it is our hope that people’s health will be the focal point that guides all public and private decision-making. RWJF is committed to this vision of a healthy America in which our entire society is transformed into one that values the pursuit and preservation of wellness.