Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health wants to recognize residents of the county for “exceptional efforts to model, encourage, and promote health in the community,” according to a news release from the organization.
This is the 10th year for the health department’s recognition. It’s given out annually during a community luncheon as part of National Public Health Week, the first week of April. Champions receive a trophy, a round of applause, and a donation to a cause of their choice. The event also includes the Kay Kent award which recognizes LDCPH staff.
Nominees are expected to have demonstrated work that goes above and beyond the expectations of normal job or organizational responsibilities and efforts that have resulted in a positive health impact on others in the community, according to the release.
“Public Health is what we do. These awards are an important way for us to recognize the impacts of individuals and partner organizations within our community,” LDCPH Director Dan Partridge said in the release. “We wouldn’t be able to work towards our goals without the input and support of so many great people throughout Douglas County.”
The deadline to nominate someone is Friday, March 10. The nomination form is available at ldchealth.org/hcnominationform. Forms can be emailed to info@ldchealth.org with the subject line “Health Champion” or delivered to 200 Maine St. Suite B in Lawrence.
Here are previous years’ health champions:
• 2013: Michel Loomis; Josie Naron
• 2014: Ellen Young; Logan Brown
• 2015: Rick Martin; Di Xie
• 2016: Linda Cottin; Marilyn Hull
• 2017: Evan Jorn; Adam and Rachel Rolf
• 2018: Melissa Hoffman; Aimee Polson
• 2019: Mitchell Tegtmeier; Dee Boeck and Gene Wee
• 2020: Cori Green; Vanessa Sanburn; Bob Tryanski; Elizabeth Keever
• 2021: Dr. Thomas Marcellino; Dr. Jennifer Schrimsher; Robert Bieniecki; Jillian Rodrigue
• 2022: Elizabeth Stephens; Brian Bradfield; KU School of Pharmacy
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