On Jan. 17, 1999 Jane E. Henney, M.D., appointed by President Bill Clinton, became the first woman to serve as Commissioner of Food and Drugs. Dr. Henney previously worked at the FDA from 1992 to 1994 as deputy commissioner for operations under then commissioner David Kessler.

During Dr. Henney’s tenure, the FDA launched reforms in drug and medical device review processes and strengthened the science base of the agency.