Governor Appoints Patty Hayes as State Board of Health Chair
Hayes brings more than 35 years of experience in public health and policy
Tumwater, WA – October 25, 2023 - Governor Jay Inslee appointed Patty Hayes as the State Board of Health’s (Board) new Chair. Hayes currently sits on the Board as a representative experienced in matters of health and sanitation. The position of Chair was previously held by Kitsap Public Health Administrator Keith Grellner.
Hayes brings over 35 years of experience in public health and policy, recently retiring from service in 2021 from Public Health – Seattle & King County. Her previous positions include Executive Director of WithinReach, Assistant Secretary for the State Department of Health's (Department) Community Family Health Division, and Director of the Department's Policy Legislative and Constituent Relations Office. Hayes received her undergraduate and master's degree from the University of Washington (UW) School of Nursing. Hayes has received numerous awards including being inducted into the Washington Nursing Hall of Fame in 2002; the UW Alumna Summa Laude Dignata Award in 2020; and the MLK Medal of Distinguished Service in 2021 from the King County Council.
“I am extremely honored to be appointed by Governor Inslee to Chair the State Board of Health,” said Hayes. “The Board's work is critical for the health and wellbeing of every Washingtonian. I look forward to the work ahead and want to express my gratitude to outgoing Chair Grellner for his service to the Board and Public Health."
“Patty is a respected public health leader,” said Michelle Davis, Executive Director of the Board. “She brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing equity and improving public health to the position of Board Chair. We are so pleased the Governor has selected her as our next Chair.”
Hayes first meeting as Board Chair will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. Meeting location and online access will be made available on our November 8 meeting materials webpage.
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Established by the state constitution in 1889, the State Board of Health has served the people of Washington for 132 years, providing leadership and advancing public health practices that protect and improve the public’s health. Our work focuses on analyzing policies, developing rules, promoting partnerships, and encouraging public engagement in the public health system.
Media contact information
Michelle Larson
Communications Manager
Washington State Board of Health
Michelle.Larson@sboh.wa.gov
(360) 236-4102
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