Washington State Department of Health
Washington State Secretary of Health Mary Selecky has announced plans to retire from state service and return to her longtime home in Colville.
Selecky has served three governors since first being appointed “acting secretary” in October 1998. Her nearly 15 years as Washington’s secretary of health make her one of the longest serving state health leaders in the country. Selecky had been the administrator for the Northeast Tri County Health District in our state for nearly 20 years before taking the state job. She marks 38 years in public service this year.
“Public health affects every person in our state. I’m especially proud of the great progress we’ve made lowering smoking rates and getting more kids vaccinated. We’ll have a healthier future because of it,” said Secretary Selecky. “It has truly been an honor to serve the people of Washington and to work with such dedicated state, local, and tribal public health professionals.”
Under Selecky’s leadership, Washington’s adult smoking rate has dropped 30 percent, and youth smoking rates are down by half; childhood vaccination rates are the highest in years.
“Thanks to Mary, Washington is a healthier place to live and raise a family,” said Gov. Jay Inslee. “I thank her for her valuable service to the people of our state and wish her all the best as she returns to the beautiful town of Colville.”
Secretary Selecky has committed to continuing to lead the Department of Health until a successor is found.