Outstanding Leadership: San Diego County Public Health Officer Dr. Wilma J. Wooten Honored with Beverlee A. Myers Award for Excellence in Public Health

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 was presented annually to commemorate outstanding leadership and commitment to all aspects of public health.

Wooten’s 23 years of service to San Diego County were celebrated during the award ceremony in Sacramento, specifically recognizing her exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite facing challenges, she remained dedicated to her role and received support from the county’s public health services team and other health officials across the state.

Throughout her career, Wooten has been a trailblazer and role model for young Black American girls interested in pursuing a career in medicine and science. She emphasizes the importance of seeking different perspectives, including those who may not agree with your ideas, while maintaining focus on her duties as a public official.

Wooten joined San Diego 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, earning a degree in biology from Spelman College and a Master of Public Health from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

Established in 1993, the Beverlee A. Meyers Award honors the late Beverlee A. Myers and her 25-year career with CDPH. Wooten’s dedication to public health, especially during challenging times like COVID-19 pandemic, was recognized and celebrated by her colleagues and community members at large at this prestigious event held in Sacramento.