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Richard Baum
ONDCP, Senior Policy Analyst, Emerging Threats
Professional Background
Richard J. Baum is a distinguished public policy expert and long-time advocate in the field of drug policy. With an impressive career spanning over three decades, Baum has made significant contributions to combating drug addiction and reforming drug policies in the United States. He served as the Acting Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) from March 2017 to February 2018, where he played a crucial role in addressing the national opioid crisis. His dedication to aiding communities affected by substance abuse is evident through his concurrent role as the Executive Director of the bipartisan Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis.
Baum's journey in drug policy began as a Congressional Committee staffer at the House Select Committee on Narcotics from 1988 to 1993. This experience laid the foundation for his in-depth understanding of the intricate interplay between drug policy, law enforcement, and public health. His notable tenure of over 24 years at ONDCP has seen him assume various impactful positions, including Senior Policy Analyst and Senior Policy Advisor. In his current role at the Office of Performance and Budget, Baum is responsible for the strategic development of the 2022 National Drug Control Strategy, focusing on critical issues such as low threshold treatment engagement, harm reduction, and promoting collaboration between health and justice systems.
In addition to his government service, Richard Baum brings his expertise into academia as an Adjunct Professor of Public Policy at Georgetown University's McCourt Graduate School. Each Spring semester, he teaches a thoughtfully designed course entitled: "The War on Drugs: Causes, Consequences, and Alternatives." This position underlines his commitment to not only shaping policy but also educating the next generation of leaders in public policy.
Education and Achievements
Baum's educational background is as robust as his professional experience. He earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Government, International Affairs, and Public Policy from Georgetown University. To further his expertise, he obtained a Master's in Public Administration (M.P.A.) from the University of Colorado Denver and a Master's in National Security Studies from Georgetown University. This diverse academic foundation has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of both domestic and international policy issues.
Richard Baum’s evolution in drug policy continues to be shaped by his academic knowledge and practical experience. His work has contributed to opening dialogues on substance use disorder and progressing towards more humane and effective approaches to drug legislation. He has advocated for significant reforms aimed at reducing the stigma associated with addiction while promoting vital prevention strategies.
Achievements
Baum’s career is marked by a series of notable achievements important not only to drug policy but also to public health. His leadership at ONDCP and his role in the development of critical national strategies to address drug addiction exemplify his commitment to facilitating collaborative efforts within federal, state, and local agencies.
His work on the bipartisan Commission was especially instrumental during a time when addiction rates were escalating, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions that encompass treatment, prevention, and justice reform. The collaborative nature of this initiative helped unify diverse stakeholders, including community organizations, healthcare providers, and law enforcement, in their efforts to combat this pressing crisis.
Moreover, Baum’s role as the Coordinator of U.S. Anti-Doping Policy in sports reflects his expertise in addressing the challenges of substance use within competitive sports environments. By promoting fair play and integrity, he aims to influence policy in a way that balances the health of athletes with the demands of competitive integrity.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Richard Baum resides in Falls Church, Virginia, with his wife Linda Bloss-Baum, and their two children, Alexandra and Matthew, further enriching his understanding of community and family dynamics. The incorporation of personal experience into his work adds depth to his advocacy, illustrating the importance of connection and compassion in policy-making. Underneath his professional accolades lies an underlying passion for public service and community welfare.
Questions About Richard J. Baum
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How did Richard J. Baum's early experiences in the House Select Committee influence his passionate advocacy for drug policy reform?
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In what ways has Richard J. Baum’s role at the ONDCP shaped the national conversation on drug addiction and public health?
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What insights can Richard J. Baum provide to students about the complexities of drug policy in his Georgetown University course?
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How does Richard J. Baum's work as Coordinator of U.S. Anti-Doping Policy reflect broader trends in the integration of health and sport policy?
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As an Adjunct Professor, how does Richard J. Baum equip the next generation of public policy leaders with the tools needed to address challenges in drug policy?
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