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San Diego County Public Health Officer Dr. Wilma J. Wooten was honored with the highest award from the California Department of Public Health, the Beverlee A. Myers Award for Excellence in Public Health. This recognition is given annually to outstanding leaders who demonstrate dedication to all aspects of public health.
Wooten has been serving San Diego County for 23 years and received praise for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite facing challenges, she remained committed to her role and received support from the county’s public health services team and other health officials in the state. Wooten was recognized for breaking barriers and serving as a role model for young Black American girls pursuing careers in medicine and science.
Despite criticism from the public, Wooten maintained focus on her duties as a public official. She emphasized the importance of seeking diverse perspectives, including those who may not agree with your ideas. Wooten joined the county in 2001 and became the public health officer in 2007. Born in rural Alabama, she was the first in her family to attend college, graduating with a degree in biology from Spelman College and earning a Master of Public Health from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.
The Beverlee A. Meyers Award was established in 1993 to honor late Beverlee A. Myers and her 25-year career with CDPH. Wooten’s commitment to public health, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, was celebrated by her colleagues and community members at an award ceremony held in Sacramento.
In conclusion, Dr. Wilma J Wooten’s dedication to public health has been recognized with one of California’s highest honors – The Beverlee A Myers Award for Excellence in Public Health – which is given annually to outstanding leaders who demonstrate dedication to all aspects of public health.
