Tune into this episode of the 5 Second Rule Podcast where hosts Lerenza Howard and Kelly Holmes interview Dr. Carol McLay, a leading infection prevention expert and 2025 APIC President. Hear about Dr. McLay’s inspiring career journey including her experiences during the AIDS epidemic and the Ebola outbreak. Listen to her vision to strengthen infection prevention and control programs during her term as the 2025 APIC President. Join us for a captivating conversation on lifelong learning, global health, and sustainable preparedness.

Hosted by:

Kelly Holmes, MS, CIC and Lerenza Howard, MHA, CIC, LSSGB

Infection prevention is a global responsibility, and I think that fostering collaborations across all countries is really essential to achieving our shared goals.

About our Guest

Carol M. McLay, DrPH, MPH, RN, FAPIC, CIC

Dr. Carol McLay is a leading expert in infection prevention, healthcare epidemiology, and public health, with 30 years of experience advancing clinical practice, education, and research. A passionate advocate for certification and professional development, she is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of infection preventionists.

Dr. McLay is the author of several foundational resources, including The Infection Prevention Competency Review Guide, 4th Edition, and APIC’s Certification Study Guides (5th–7th editions). She will serve as the 2025 APIC President and currently holds leadership roles on the International Federation for Infection Control (IFIC) Board of Directors and the AJIC Editorial Board.

Certified in Infection Control (CIC), a Fellow of both APIC and SHEA, and a certified ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, Dr. McLay brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the field. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Ottawa (Canada), her Master of Public Health from Emory University, and her Doctorate of Public Health from the University of Kentucky.