Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 15, 1999
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke names Mary Selecky to head state Department of Health

OLYMPIA — Gov. Gary Locke today named Mary Selecky as secretary of the Washington Department of Health. The appointment follows an intensive recruitment campaign for the state's top public health official.

"As the governor conducted a nationwide search for this position, a long and often tedious process, one name kept coming up – Mary Selecky," Joe Dear, Locke's chief of staff, said. "We have done a thorough search and have come away with the top-notch candidate."

Selecky has served as acting secretary at the Department of Health since last October, where, Dear commented, "she has been a tireless advocate for protecting the public's health."

The Department of Health is charged with protecting and improving the health of the people of Washington. Working with local health departments, community groups, and others, the department investigates disease outbreaks, regulates health care professionals and facilities, monitors drinking water quality, and educates the public on subjects as diverse as early childhood development and injury prevention.

"I'm excited about this opportunity because public health touches every person's life," said Selecky. "For example, if the legislature passes the tobacco prevention legislation, our state will have a historic opportunity to raise a generation of children who are tobacco free and to make a lasting difference in their lives."

Dear cited Selecky's proven record of reaching out to diverse groups across the state as a primary factor in the governor's decision to appoint her. "As a resident of Colville in Stevens County, Mary has a unique perspective on the special needs and challenges that rural areas face," he said. "As we strive to bring our state together, and make sure that we move as 'one Washington' into the next century, Mary will continue to be a powerful and respected voice in the health care community across the state."

Selecky, 51, must now be confirmed by the state Senate, where she is expected to pass with little opposition. The position pays an annual salary of $96,469.

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