Molly Czepiel joins UTHealth Houston as vice president of governmental relations

(Photo by UTHealth Houston)

Molly Czepiel, an experienced government affairs and health policy leader, has joined UTHealth Houston as vice president of governmental relations.

“Molly brings an exceptional depth of experience in health policy and government relations, along with a strong understanding of the issues that matter to UTHealth Houston and the people we serve,” said Scott Forbes, senior vice president of governmental relations. “Her ability to build relationships and navigate complex policy environments will be a tremendous asset as we strengthen our engagement with key government officials and leadership and advance the university’s priorities.”

Czepiel comes to UTHealth Houston from Merck, where she served as director of state government affairs for Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma.

Before joining Merck, Czepiel served as policy advisor for health and human services to the speaker of the Texas House of Representatives. In that role, she represented the speaker on health matters, including the Article II appropriations bill for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Czepiel’s career spans both the public and private sectors. She previously worked in government relations representing Cigna Health Insurance and held multiple positions with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, including associate commissioner for policy and performance.

Her public service experience also includes additional roles at the Texas State Capitol and within state agencies, as well as experience working for a member of Congress in Washington, D.C.

“I am excited to join UTHealth Houston at such an important time for the university and for healthcare in Texas,” Czepiel said. “There is tremendous opportunity to build on the university’s strong relationships and ensure policymakers understand the impact of our work in education, research, and patient care. I look forward to working with colleagues across UTHealth Houston to help advance that mission.”

As vice president of governmental relations, Czepiel will play a critical role in representing UTHealth Houston during the upcoming legislative session. Czepiel began her new role on Aug. 24 and is based in Governmental Relations’ Austin office.