Wendy Underwood

Wendy Underwood was appointed deputy commissioner in March 2024, by Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham. She is responsible for agency-wide leadership, policy direction, and management of the day-to-day operations of the agency. This includes implementation of legislation and administrative priorities that drive MDH’s mission to protect, maintain, and improve the health of all Minnesotans.
 

Professional background

Prior to joining MDH, Underwood served as chief advancement and public engagement officer for Catholic Charities Twin Cities, where she led the agency’s social justice advocacy, communications, community engagement, and the philanthropic and private donor departments. 

Underwood also served as assistant commissioner for external affairs at the Minnesota Department of Human Services, where she led the department’s Communications and Legislative Affairs Division, Office of Indian Policy, Federal Relations, County Relations, and Community and Partner Relations. She also served as government relations director for the City of Saint Paul and as coordinator of federal relations for the State of Minnesota.

Educational background

Underwood earned an MBA from Hamline University and a bachelor’s degree in government and international studies from Augustana College. She is a Humphrey Fellows and Minnesota Young American Leaders Program alumnus.