Denise Daniels named next director of Olmsted County Public Health Services

  • News
  • Apr 4, 2022
Denise Daniels picture

Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS) Associate Director Denise Daniels will continue her career with the county as the next director of Public Health. Daniels will officially begin the position on April 11, 2022.

As director of OCPHS, Daniels will be responsible for: 

  • Directing the implementation of policies and programs for Public Health Services.
  • Overseeing the evaluation of community health needs and priorities with local partners.
  • Leading and supporting the department during emergency situations and monitoring for emerging public health threats.

Daniels has been with Olmsted County for 18 years, in multiple positions, most recently as associate director. As an associate director, Daniels assisted in the development and implementation of community-wide health strategies and has played an integral role in the county’s COVID-19 response leading the internal team as Incident Commander and working alongside numerous community partners throughout the pandemic. 

Daniels and OCPHS Associate Director Michael Melius have served as interim co-directors since the end of 2021.

“Denise is an exceptional leader who draws in others and empowers them to perform at their highest levels in individual and team settings,” said OCPHS Associate Director Michael Melius. “Her skills, knowledge, and abilities were regularly demonstrated during her time as Incident Commander in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“Throughout her time with Olmsted County, Denise has built strong relationships with employees and the community based on trust and transparency,” said Olmsted County Deputy Administrator Travis Gransee. “We are elated she will continue serving Olmsted County as the next director of Public Health Services.”

Daniels has a bachelor’s degree in community health education and a master’s degree in organizational leadership.

Daniels shares that, “It is an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to lead an exceptionally skilled and passionate group of staff at Olmsted County Public Health Services, as they continue to protect, promote, and improve the health of all individuals in our community.”