Gillings alumna Bridger honored as NC health director of the year
Feb. 5, 2014
Dr. Colleen Bridger accepts her NCALHD award.
Colleen Bridger, PhD, Orange County (N.C.) health director, received the N.C. Association of Local Health Directors’ Health Director of the Year award on Jan. 22. The recognition is given to an individual who has shown outstanding leadership in public health in the state and for leadership and involvement in local community and civic activities.
Bridger received her Master of Public Health degree in maternal and child health from the Gillings School of Global Public Health in 1995. She has served in her current position since October 2011.
Bridger, who was nominated by the leadership teams of the Orange County Health Department and Orange County Board of Health as well as by community partners, said the award was special because the winners are selected by other public health leaders, with “the people who know you and your work best” making the decision.
“I would not have received this award were it not for the amazing team members with whom I work,” she said. “It is a joy and honor to work with public health leaders at the health department, on the Board of Health, and throughout our community.”
“This award is validation of the outstanding leadership Dr. Bridger brings to the table,” said Michael Talbert, interim county manager. “In the short time she has been with Orange County, she has implemented sweeping change, which the community benefits from on a daily basis.”
Gillings School of Global Public Health contact: David Pesci, director of communications, (919) 962-2600 or dpesci@unc.edu.
