Mecklenburg County Health Director Dr. Raynard Washington is moving to New Jersey to serve as the state’s new health commissioner. He resigned on January 20, wrapping up a five-year journey with Mecklenburg that began as deputy health director. He took on the leading role in 2022 after a year of service.
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill nominated Washington to head the New Jersey Department of Health. “It’s been a privilege to serve as Mecklenburg County Health Director,” he shared. “I’m proud of what our team has achieved during tough times. I’ll miss my colleagues here, but I believe in their commitment to community health.”
During his tenure, Washington played a vital role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that testing and vaccination were accessible to vulnerable communities. He also addressed other health threats, including the mpox outbreak in 2022. His initiatives expanded clinical services, like HIV and STI screenings, and he founded North Carolina’s first Office of Violence Prevention.
County Manager Mike Bryant praised Washington, stating that his leadership went beyond traditional public health roles. “He was a skilled and adaptable public servant who guided us through multiple health challenges,” he said.
Recent surveys have shown that public trust in health departments has increased during the pandemic. The work Washington led highlights the importance of proactive measures in public health. This shift shows that communities are willing to engage and support health initiatives, especially when they see visible results.
As Washington steps into his new role, his experience with health crises will be invaluable. His approach in Mecklenburg may set a precedent for how New Jersey deals with its public health challenges moving forward.
For more insights on public health leadership trends, you can visit the CDC’s official site at [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov).
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Dr. Raynard Washington
