San Diego County Public Health Officer Dr. Wilma J. Wooten was recently recognized for her outstanding leadership and dedication to public health with the prestigious Beverlee A. Myers Award for Excellence in Public Health by the California Department of Public Health.
During the award ceremony in Sacramento, Dr. Wooten was praised for her 23 years of service to the county, particularly highlighting her exceptional leadership during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Susan Fanelli, chief deputy director at CDPH, commended Dr. Wooten, stating, “The COVID adversity did not just build her character. It revealed her character.”
Dr. Wooten was a key figure in San Diego County’s response to the pandemic, regularly providing updates on the spread of cases to the media and the public. Despite facing criticism and backlash from some members of the public, she remained steadfast in her commitment to public health.
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Wooten emphasized the importance of engaging with individuals who may not always agree with you, stating, “Make sure to socialize what you think is a ‘great idea’ with those you think are supportive, as well as with those reluctant, opposed or impacted by your important policy, practice, or program.”
Born in rural Alabama, Dr. Wooten overcame barriers to become the first person in her family to attend college. She holds a degree in biology from Spelman College, a Master of Public Health from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, and a doctorate from the UNC School of Medicine.
The Beverlee A. Myers Award, established in 1993, honors the legacy of the late Beverlee A. Myers and her contributions to public health during her 25-year career with CDPH. Dr. Wooten’s recognition serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication to improving the health and well-being of the community.
