| The last couple of years have been a time of change and challenge for the St. Lucie County Health Department. Our County was devasted by three hurricanes and we said farewell to several valued public health leaders.
September of 2004 was a time we will never forget. St. Lucie County health Department staff performed admirably during this month when two hurricanes named Frances and Jeanne ravaged our community. Many or our employees worked long hours in shelters caring for our special medical needs population while many others had important roles responding to post storm recovery. |
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After witnessing the dedication of our staff, I know that our community's public health services are in competent and caring hands.
Our former Administrator, Diane Walgren, retired and moved to the Midwest to be closer to her family. Her dedication to public health and the St. Lucie County Health Department may be matched. Under her leadership, our health department emerged from very difficult times and became one of the leading health departments in Florida. She will always hold a very special place in all of our hearts.
Our former Medical Director, Dr. Dawn Allicock, also left to take a step forward in her career and was appointed as Director of the St. John's County Health Department. We congratulate her and appreciate the work she did to improve our clinical services and care for our community's children.
I would be remiss not to use this opportunity to recognize the invaluable leadership provided by Virginia "Jenny" Lindell while she served as our Acting Administrator. Jenny, who is also our Chief Nursing Officer, served as Acting Administrator from August 5, 2004 to February 24, 2005. She led us through the most difficult circumstances any leader could face and performed a tremendous service to our community.
It is a challenge to follow leaders like Diane and Jenny. One benefit I have in assuming the role as Administrator is that I have worked for the St. Lucie County Health Department since 1993, know our staff, and know and love this community. My commitment is to continue the work that has been initiated by my predecessors and to expand and strengthen partnerships with the many organizations that comprise the public health system. We face many challenges that the Health Department cannot solve alone. Expanding our strategic planning work to involve and mobilize the entire community is one of our primary goals. Of course, we will continue to develop and strengthen existing programs to prevent disease and injury and to promote the health of every member of our community.
As you read through the pages on this website, I hope you will come to better understand and appreciate the important work that our employees do for their fellow citizens. It is an honor for me to work with such a fine team of people.
Sincerely,
Larry J. Lee
County Health Department Administrator
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