San Diego City Wire

San Diego County celebrated the 2024 Live Well San Diego Public Health Champion Awards Ceremony on April 5, 2024, honoring 12 remarkable individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to public health in the region.

The event, hosted by County Public Health Officer Wilma J. Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., recognized outstanding efforts in disease prevention, injury prevention, and the promotion of public health for all San Diegans. Dr. Wooten, a key figure in the County's public health sector, has been instrumental in developing innovative health equity frameworks and leading initiatives in various health areas, including the County's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Among the honorees was Leticia Cázares, MPHLeticia Cázares, who has dedicated her career to eliminating health and social inequities, serving as a strong advocate for diverse communities in clinical research and health promotion programs.

Another awardee, Charles “Chuck” Matthews III, PhD, MBA, MS, has been commended for his efforts in advancing public health education and fostering collaborations between academic institutions and public health departments.

The recognition extended to organizations such as the CSUSM HOPE & Wellness Center, known for providing culturally competent health promotion programs to students and the community for over two decades.

Individuals like Rosemary W. Pope, Jack Dailey, Esq., Ana Lozano, and groups like DETOUR were also honored for their significant contributions to public health in various sectors, ranging from services for older adults to healthcare advocacy and community engagement programs.

Each champion and organization recognized at the ceremony has played a vital role in enhancing public health and well-being in San Diego County, aligning with the mission of the Health and Human Services Agency to improve the lives of all 3.3 million residents in the region.

The annual awards ceremony coincided with National Public Health Week, emphasizing the importance of public health and fostering a healthier, safer, and more self-sufficient community for all San Diegans.