Early Life and Education of Leana Wen: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 29, 2025

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Leana Wen. A timeline of key moments.

Leana Wen is an American physician, author, and public health expert. She served as the Health Commissioner for Baltimore City, where she focused on addressing the opioid crisis, improving maternal and child health, and promoting health equity. Subsequently, she became the president of Planned Parenthood, advocating for reproductive health access and women's rights. Wen is a frequent commentator on public health issues, contributing to various media outlets and publications.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

January 27, 1983: Leana Wen Born

On January 27, 1983, Leana Sheryle Wen (born Wen Linyan) was born in Shanghai, China.

Others born on this day/year

2001: Graduation with Bachelor of Science

In 2001, at the age of 18, Leana Wen graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from California State University, Los Angeles.

2003: Became a U.S. Citizen

In 2003, Leana Wen and her family became citizens of the United States.

2007: Received Doctor of Medicine and Master of Science

In 2007, Leana Wen received a Doctor of Medicine from Washington University School of Medicine and a Master of Science (MSc) in economic and social history from Merton College, Oxford.

2008: Earned Master's Degree in Chinese Studies

In 2008, Leana Wen earned a master's degree in Chinese studies from Merton College, Oxford.

2010: Death of Wen's Mother

In 2010, Leana Wen's mother passed away from breast cancer. Prior to her passing she worked as a hotel room cleaner, video store clerk, and ultimately as an elementary school teacher.

November 2011: Blessing Ceremony in Cape Town

In November 2011, Leana Wen and Sebastian Neil Walker had a blessing ceremony in Cape Town.

February 2012: Marriage to Sebastian Neil Walker

In February 2012, Leana Wen married South Africa native Sebastian Neil Walker in Boston.

2017: Birth of Son

In 2017, Leana Wen and Sebastian Neil Walker had a son.

August 2019: Joined George Washington University as Visiting Professor

In August 2019, Leana Wen joined the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University as a visiting professor of health policy and management. She was also named a distinguished fellow in the Fitzhugh Mullan Institute for Health Workforce Equity.