SANFORD, Fla. - The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County (DOH-Seminole) recently celebrated local Black Leaders who are “Shaping the Future of Our Community” during National Black History Month on February 9, 2017.

The ceremony honored DOH–Seminole employees and community members in Seminole County from African-American/Afro-Caribbean descent who are actively engaged in the community and support public health efforts. During the celebration the following community leaders were honored: Dr. Geraldine Wright from the Seminole County Public Schools Great Start Program, Jeannette White, POUND fitness Instructor and representative of the Center for Multicultural Wellness and Prevention, Peggy Booth, retired DOH-Seminole employee and Pasha Baker from the Goldsboro West Side Community Historical Association for their contributions in Seminole County.

During the celebration the following DOH-Seminole employees were also recognized: Iris Quinn, Datra Williams, Willie Brown, Sakialynn Johnson and Brittney Frazier.

The community partners and employees were honored for serving the community through providing improved access to health care, healthier environments, education and compassion. Their contributions will continue to positively impact generations to come.

“It is an honor to celebrate these partners and employees for their dedication and efforts in the community and in public health. We will continue to collaborate to address health equity and the needs of our community,” said Donna Walsh, health officer for the Florida Department of Health in Seminole County.

The DOH-Seminole Minority Health Task Force who organized the event collaborates with community partners in Seminole County to reduce and eliminate racial and ethnic health disparities. These efforts aim to ensure all residents are respected, treated fairly, and have equal opportunity to reach their optimal potential.

For more information about joining the Minority Health Task Force, contact Sakialynn Johnson, Chair at 407 665-3029 or Sakialynn.Johnson@flhealth.gov .

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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