In Memoriam: Susan May Bacheller

1958 – 2010

Our dear colleague and friend, Susan Bacheller, who gave more than 15 years of dedicated service to USAID and global public health, passed away last week. We admired and appreciated her dedication to development, global health, and especially the fight against tuberculosis. A faithful friend, she showed grace and good humor toward everyone.

Susan’s technical leadership, intellect and spirit inspired those she met and served. She was a driving force in the global effort to improve the health of millions of men, women and children around the world – reflecting the best of USAID’s core values. Hers was a life spent in service to others.

Susan grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and was a registered nurse, later earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Arts in International Development. Following service as a Peace Corps volunteer in Yemen and Honduras, she joined USAID, working in the Bureau for Global Health, as well as the Bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean.

As TB Team Leader, she was instrumental in building up USAID’s tuberculosis portfolio and established a network of colleagues worldwide, who admired and respected her work and dedication. Susan developed the U.S. Government’s Global Tuberculosis Strategy, provided expert support to USAID missions and was a determined and compassionate ambassador and advocate for global tuberculosis control.

Susan transformed the lives of many more across the globe. Her passion for those who lived on the margins and for fairness was evident to all.

Our hearts go out to her family and friends in this time of great loss. A true public health advocate and professional, Susan will be sorely missed. I hope that you will join me in reflecting on the legacy of our great colleague and friend. She, for her technical leadership, compassion and humor, will be forever remembered.

Funeral arrangements are pending. For information, check http://www.lifestorynet.com/memories/63257/