With support from PHIG, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) formed a Data Modernization Advisory Council (DMAC) in July 2025. VDH secured leadership buy-in by developing concise core messages that underscored the importance of data modernization and leveraged PHIG technical assistance from ASTHO and HLN Consulting to support the council’s formation. VDH is also in the process of finalizing the scoring of its data modernization plan to strategically prioritize its needs and use it as a sustainability-focused roadmap for strengthening its data infrastructure. With representation from across state, local, and Tribal health departments, the council will ensure that modernization decisions are aligned with statewide priorities and designed for long-term sustainability.