Danny Avula (born 1978)[1] is an Indian-American public health professional and politician who is themayor ofRichmond, Virginia, following his victory in the2024 election. He is a member of theDemocratic Party and the city's first Indian mayor.
Avula was born inHyderabad, India, and immigrated with his family to the United States a year after he was born. His father joined the U.S. Navy and his family lived in California until Avula's late elementary school years. After his father retired from active duty, both his parents spent their careers working for theDepartment of Defense.[2] He grew up inNorthern Virginia.[3]
Avula gained prominence during theCOVID-19 pandemic earning the nickname "Richmond's Dr. Fauci" and led vaccination efforts in Virginia.[5] He previously served as director of the Health District coveringRichmond andHenrico County.[6] In 2020, he was namedStyle Weekly's Richmonder of the Year.[3] He went on to be appointed Commissioner of Social Services for the Commonwealth of Virginia by GovernorsRalph Northam andGlenn Youngkin.[4]
Avula announced his campaign formayor of Richmond, Virginia, on April 10, 2024.[7] On November 5, 2024, Avula won the2024 Richmond mayoral election becoming mayor-elect of the city.[8] Avula was sworn in on January 1, 2025, making him the city's first immigrant mayor.[7]
Avula is married to Mary Kay, aRichmond Public Schools elementary school teacher. He and his wife have five children.[9] One of their children is adopted.[10]
_(cropped).jpg)