Dr. Jeffrey Rouse brings a rare combination of leadership in public service, clinical psychiatry, and academic neuroscience, offering a multifaceted perspective on the connection between mental health and public safety. As the elected Coroner for Orleans Parish, New Orleans, and the first new coroner in four decades, he led a transformative modernization of the office, championing scientific integrity and transparency. His leadership culminated in building a state-of-the-art $14.8 million headquarters, reshaping the city’s approach to death investigation and mental health services. In addition to his public service, Dr. Rouse is an Assistant Professor at Tulane University, where his research explores emotional regulation, neuroimaging, and the neural foundations of meditation. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Duke University, he earned his M.D. at Georgetown before psychiatric training at Tulane. His unique career as physician, scientist, and civic leader makes him a vital voice for advancing mental health and community well-being.