On April 30, WithinReach honored Patty Hayes, Public Health’s Interim Director, with the Cynthia F. Shurtleff Leadership Award. Since 1996, this award has been presented each year to an individual who has shown extraordinary leadership, innovation and dedication to the health and well-being of women, children, and families in Washington State.

It is easy to understand why Patty was chosen as a recipient – her work as Interim Director of Public Health, Director of Community Health Services, and Executive Director  of WithinReach are just a few examples of  her outstanding leadership and service in King County.

“Families throughout King County are healthier thanks to the leadership and dedication that Patty Hayes and our dedicated public health employees have demonstrated at the state and local level,” said Executive Dow Constantine. “I’m glad that Patty is receiving the recognition she deserves, and am grateful to have her on my team.”

“Washington State is fortunate to have a smart, passionate public health leader such as Patty – she has devoted her professional life to bettering the health of our communities.  I cannot think of a more deserving honoree of the Cynthia F Shurtleff Leadership Award,” said Kay Knox, current CEO of WithinReach.

But this award is meaningful for Patty on a personal level too; Cynthia F. Shurtleff was a mentor of Patty’s in her early career.

“I’m so honored to receive this award, which I gratefully accept on behalf of the many children and families Within Reach has served over the past three decades,” said Patty.

Patty will join an impressive list of Cynthia F. Shurtleff award winners, including Dr. Kyle Yasuda, former president of the Washington chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Congratulations, Patty! We are fortunate to have such a wonderful person leading the department.