January 14, 1947 – March 15, 2026
Dr. Penny Hitchcock, a veterinarian, infectious disease researcher, and public health leader whose work advanced the study of sexually transmitted diseases and biosecurity policy in the United States, died at the age of 79.
Born in 1947 and raised in Connecticut, she graduated from Hamden High, before pursuing higher education in the sciences. She earned a Bachelor of Science from Washington State University and later completed her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Early in her career she taught at the University of Tennessee.
Dr. Hitchcock later built a distinguished career at the National Institutes of Health, where she served in leadership roles including Chief of the Sexually Transmitted Diseases Branch at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Her work helped guide national and international research efforts focused on infectious diseases and contributed to initiatives addressing biosecurity and emerging health threats.
She was also a committed advocate for women’s rights and humanitarian causes and maintained a lifelong interest in international affairs. Ireland held a special place in her heart, and she visited often, forming many lasting friendships there. Later in life she embraced Catholicism.
Dr. Hitchcock lived in many places, but Seattle, Tennessee, Bethesda and Baltimore, Maryland, and New Mexico were some that held special spots in her heart.
Outside of her professional life, she was an avid cyclist, a world traveler, and someone who embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. She loved salsa dancing and jazz music, and her home was often filled with music.
She was also a devoted animal lover and frequently rescued cats, all of whom had backstories and personalities to match. Friends remember her mornings spent with coffee while watching the birds outside her window. She often said that very little in life could not be made better with a good cup of black coffee and a square of dark chocolate.
She shared a close relationship with her longtime partner, Ray Solem, and remained deeply connected with his family. She spent many holidays and special occasions with Karen, Byron, and their daughters and Sanna.
She is survived by her sister, Susan Settle; her brother, Steven Hitchcock; multiple nieces and nephews; and many extended family members, friends, and colleagues. Private.
Acknowledgment: The family is deeply grateful to Karen, Byron, their daughters, and Karen’s mother, Sanna, for the love and compassionate care they provided to Penny during the final chapter of her life. Their devotion brought comfort, dignity, and peace.
Published by The Washington Post on Jul. 23, 2026.