Health Commissioner

Dr. Julie Chaya was named Health Commissioner at Richland Public Health by the Board of Health on February 7, 2023.  Prior to becoming Health Commissioner, Chaya had served as Director of Community Health & Prevention Sciences at Richland Public Health since 2017. She succeeds Sarah Humphrey who served Richland Public Health from 2020 to 2022.

“Dr. Chaya has demonstrated an exceptional commitment and passion for public health service in Richland County,” said Richland Public Health Board of Health President, Dr. Robert Exten. “Her experience serving as the Director of Community Health & Prevention Sciences has provided her with the necessary knowledge and skills needed for this important position. Her tenure with the health department and well-established relationships with local community partners provide valuable insights, and I am confident she will continue to carry out our mission of protecting the health and well-being of Richland County residents.”

During her time as Director of Community Health & Prevention Sciences,  she had a successful track record of establishing programs and obtaining grants for the health department and the Richland County community at large. She has been instrumental in establishing successful community initiatives and collaborations throughout the area to ensure health equity and access to care for all.

Dr. Chaya holds a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Human Development & Family Studies as well as a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Health Education & Promotion from Kent State University.