Juliann Van Liew, director of public health for the Unified Government, has been recognized as one of the “40 Under 40 in Public Health” in recognition of her work.
The de Beaumont Foundation recently announced its 2021 honorees after reviewing applications from hundreds of rising leaders in public health throughout the country. The honorees were selected by a panel of public health professionals for their leadership and impact on their community’s health.
“At a time when public health professionals are being required to adapt and take on monumental challenges, we are incredibly proud of these leaders,” said Brian S. Castrucci, president and CEO of the de Beaumont Foundation. “We created the 40 Under 40 program to recognize and tell the stories of rising leaders who are making a difference in communities across the country. By promoting their work and accomplishments, we hope to attract and inspire a new generation of leaders.”
Honorees are selected for the contributions to their organization, community, and the public health field; for their demonstrated leadership in their organization; collaboration with partners; advancing policy solutions; creative problem-solving; and a commitment to the vision for the community and organization.
Van Liew, who was appointed director of public health in May 2020 has not only risen to the challenge of providing a robust response to a global pandemic but has been deeply committed to issues of health equity and access in our community, working tirelessly to ensure that the community has universal access to critical services, according to a spokesman.
“I found my true home when I entered the world of local governmental public health and realized the power of what can be achieved when local government works in concert with the community,” Van Liew said.
Year after year, Wyandotte is ranked as one of the least healthy counties in Kansas, with residents experiencing high levels of poverty, housing insecurity, chronic disease, violence, and systemic disinvestment. During her tenure, Van Liew has helped the department face these challenges and the public health demands of the 21st century by prioritizing quality improvement, performance management, workforce development, and accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board.
Van Liew and her team were influential in publishing and implementing a five-year Community Health Improvement Plan aimed at addressing health access issues, jobs and education, safe and affordable housing, and violence prevention.