The director of Black Hawk County Public Health, Dr. Nafissa Cisse Egbuonye, is stepping down from her role as the head of the department effective October 21. She will be moving into a leadership position with Molina Healthcare of Iowa.
“It has been an honor of a lifetime to have led this health department. Together, we have achieved much,” Dr. Egbuonye reflected in an email shared with the staff.
“I know this team and I know that you all will do your very best to continue the work. Your shared values and work ethic will carry this department beyond my tenure. I am so grateful that none of the hard work we accomplished was done by one person. It takes everyone’s effort to make a collective impact.”
During Dr. Egbuonye’s six-year tenure, the Health Department went through restructuring, rebranding, and became nationally accredited while responding to a global pandemic. Board of Health Chair, Reverend Dr. Mary Robinson agrees that the public health staff is strong and capable but acknowledges that Dr. Egbuonye leaves big shoes to fill.
“We are very appreciative of all the hard work Dr. Egbuonye has done over the past six years. She provided the Department with impeccable leadership, as it underwent reorganization, during the Pandemic, and with other supportive services. She also brought us to new heights when we gained National Accreditation. This was historic. And most importantly, she was instrumental in ensuring that all county residents knew about and had access to Public Health Services. We wish her the very best.”
Dr. Egbuonye and her family will remain in Iowa, and plan to stay active in the community. Deputy Director Kaitlin Emrich will oversee the department in the transition.
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Black Hawk County Public Health exists to ensure that people in our community have equitable opportunities and resources to lead healthier, more fulfilling, and longer lives. Established in 1969, the health department's mission is to protect people in our community from health hazards, promote healthy behaviors, and prevent disease. Black Hawk County Public Health was accredited by the National Public Health Accreditation Board in 2022. For more information about health department services visit the Black Hawk County Public Health website.