Skagit County hires director of public health

Dec. 1—Skagit County announced Wednesday that Keith Higman has been hired as the county's new director of public health.

Higman, who has been director of the Island County Health Department since 2008, will begin his job with Skagit County on Jan. 9.

He replaces Jennifer Johnson, who was appointed Skagit County deputy administrator on Aug. 1.

Prior to serving as director of the Island County Health Department, Higman was environmental health director for Island County for 10 years. In total, he has worked in the field of public health for more than 27 years.

Higman has a bachelor's degree from Western Washington University and a master's degree from the University of Washington.

"Skagit County has gained a real asset in hiring Keith as Public Health Director," said Skagit CountyBoard of Commissioners Chair Peter Browning. "Not only is Keith exceptionally knowledgeable in the science and application of public health, but he also excels at working through geographical barriers to access — given his time on the Island — a skill that will be beneficial for addressing critical health needs in our dynamic and large, rural county."

Johnson held the position for 8 1/2 years.

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