POLK COUNTY, Iowa — The Polk County Board of Supervisors officially named Juliann Van Liew as the next Director of the Polk County Health Department, according to a statement released on Tuesday.
Van Liew currently serves as the Wellness and Preventive Health Director at the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. She previously led the Unified Government Public Health Department in Wyandotte County, Kansas.
"Juliann Van Liew’s proven ability to modernize public health systems, foster community partnerships, and advocate for equitable health outcomes aligns perfectly with the Polk County Health Department’s mission to create the conditions for all people to live healthy lives," said Angela Connolly, chair of the Polk County Board of Supervisors.
A graduate of Drake University, Van Liew also holds a Master of Public Health from the University of Minnesota and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Public Health Policy from John Hopkins University.
"I am honored to be given the opportunity to put my health experience and education to work for Polk County," Van Liew said.
Van Liew will begin work in her new position on Dec. 18, training with Director Helen Eddy until Eddy's retirement in January.
