Juliann Van Liew Appointed as New Polk County Public Health Director

Juliann Van Liew Takes Charge as Polk County Health Director

Polk County, Iowa, has welcomed Juliann Van Liew as its new Public Health Director following the retirement of Helen Eddy. The county supervisors endorsed her appointment, recognizing her extensive experience and successful track record in public health.

Van Liew will officially begin her role on December 18, 2024, and will work alongside Eddy until her retirement on January 17, 2025. Eddy has been a significant figure in Polk County public health since January 2018, notably navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

An Experienced Leader

At present, Van Liew serves as the wellness and preventive health director at the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. Her background encompasses overseeing various state programs focused on nutrition, maternal and child health, and violence prevention.

She has significant experience, having previously directed the public health department in Wyandotte County, Kansas, during the pandemic, and worked as a program manager for Hennepin County Medical Center.

Education and Vision

Van Liew holds undergraduate degrees in international relations and political science from Drake University, along with a Master of Public Health from the University of Minnesota. She is also pursuing a Doctorate in Public Health Policy from Johns Hopkins University.

Expressing her enthusiasm, Van Liew said, ‘I am honored to be given the opportunity to put my public health experience and education to work for Polk County. I look forward to joining the Polk County team and seeing the impact we can make together.’

Looking Ahead

The Polk County Health Department, under Van Liew’s leadership, will continue providing essential health services to over 500,000 residents. Her annual salary is set at $150,260.

Chair of the Polk County Supervisors, Angela Connolly, remarked on Van Liew’s abilities, stating, ‘Her proven ability to modernize public health systems and advocate for equitable health outcomes aligns perfectly with our mission.’