The St. Louis County Board presented the annual Public Health Achievement Awards on April 7 as part of National Public Health Week.
The awards recognize individuals and organizations that contribute to improving public health in St. Louis County, highlighting the broad role of public health staff and their partners in creating positive change for both individuals and communities.
“It’s a special day when we are able to recognize individuals and organizations that make up the fabric of the public health system,” said Amy Westbrook, St. Louis County Public Health Division Director. “I want to extend sincere gratitude to the public health professionals in local government, community organizations, and healthcare systems who take action every day to promote a healthier St. Louis County.”
This year’s honorees include Sarah Wovcha, representing Children’s Dental Services; Lisa Hesse; and Sally Ludlow, president of the H.C. Heiam Medical Foundation. Hesse was recognized for her work preventing infectious disease transmission before her recent retirement from Fairview Range, while Children’s Dental Services was honored for efforts to improve access to oral health care for children and families across the county. Ludlow received recognition for leading fundraising efforts and coordinating volunteers in support of Cook Hospital.
St. Louis County Public Health operates within the Department of Public Health and Human Services through programs aimed at supporting pregnant mothers, at-risk families with young children, elderly clients seeking independent living, as well as broader community initiatives addressing environmental factors affecting well-being.
Public Health also plays an important role in disaster preparedness planning throughout St. Louis County.
