Whitney Austin Gray

Global Speaker on Health and Well-being, Building Health Expert, Built Environment and Health Researcher, and Public Health Policy Advocate

Dr. Whitney Austin Gray is the Senior Vice President of Research at the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), where she plays a pivotal role in advancing research that informs best practices in building design and operations to enhance public health and well-being. Her work focuses on creating healthier and more sustainable environments through the WELL Building Standard, which emphasizes the importance of design in promoting health outcomes.1 2

Professional Background

Before joining IWBI, Dr. Gray held significant positions at Cannon Design, a firm specializing in healthcare design, where she led various research initiatives. She also contributed to building science research at the MedStar Institute for Innovation and has been involved in academia as a faculty member at Georgetown University.1 Her extensive experience includes co-founding the Health in Buildings Roundtable at the National Institutes of Health, highlighting her commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex health challenges related to built environments.1

Contributions and Achievements

Dr. Gray has been instrumental in developing several key programs at IWBI, including:

WELL Accredited Professional (WELL AP) Program: A credentialing initiative for professionals demonstrating expertise in designing healthy buildings.
WELL Faculty Program: A global network aimed at promoting education and awareness about the value of health-focused design.1

She has also led the creation of IWBI's Global Research Agenda, focusing on human health, well-being, and the built environment. Her efforts have garnered recognition from organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers, which inducted her as an Honorary Fellow due to her contributions to integrating public health principles into design practices.1 3

Global Impact

Dr. Gray is a sought-after speaker and expert advisor, having presented in over 85 countries. Her work emphasizes the intersection of public health and design, fostering collaborations among professionals from various fields to develop innovative solutions for healthier built environments.1 2