Weber State University professor elected president of national boards of health association
(Ogden, Utah) - The National Association of Local Boards of Health has selected Weber State University professor and current Weber-Morgan Board of Health member Ken Johnson to lead its national organization.
Johnson, a resident of North Ogden, is set to take the helm in January. The National Association of Local Boards of Health provides a network of resources to elected officials and other volunteer members of local boards of health as they work to develop sound public health policies to maintain and improve public health standards around the country.
Johnson has served on the Weber-Morgan Board of Health board since 2006, serving as chair from 2008-11 and currently as vice chair. He also chaired the Utah Association of Local Boards of Health, which recognized him in 2014 for his Outstanding Contribution and Support for his work as part of the Weber-Morgan Board of Health.
Johnson is the associate dean of the Dr. Ezekiel R. Dumke College of Health Professions at Weber State University, and he is a professor in the Department of Health Administrative Services. He is also a much beloved advisor to students interested in long-term care administration and health promotion. Johnson holds a Ph.D. in health education. His interests are in health care administration as well as adolescent health. He had 15 years of experience in health care, holding positions in hospital and clinic administration and marketing, prior to his appointment at Weber State.
“Being named president of the National Association of Local Boards of Health Association is an honor and a great recognition for his continued involvement in the profession,” says Yasmen Simonian, dean of the Dumke College of Health Professions. “He is a great role model for our students.”
Weber-Morgan Health Department Executive Director Brian Bennion says Johnson’s strong commitment to public health and ties to the university are a benefit to the residents of Weber and Morgan counties.
“It’s an honor to have one of our board members serve in this capacity,” Bennion says. “We greatly value Dr. Johnson’s input regarding national trends and dedication to improving public health measures on a local level.”
Johnson’s willingness to volunteer his time has contributed to many important public heath strides in the Weber-Morgan area. Some of the accomplishments during Johnson’s time on the board include:
- Re-established the wastewater and air quality advisory committees
- Renewed focus on obesity and teen pregnancy prevention
- Helped arrange mass vaccination clinics at Weber State University during the 2009 H1N1 outbreak
- Revised Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Large Underground Treatment System regulations
- Introduced Strategic Planning
- Helped develop regulations regarding sales and manufacturing of E-Cigarettes and Smoking in Public Places.
- Supported a Community Health Assessment in order to prioritize and address important local health issues.
Lori Buttars, public information officer, Weber Morgan Health Department
801-399-7114 • lbuttars@co.weber.ut.us- Contact:
Lori Buttars, public information officer, Weber Morgan Health Department
801-399-7114 • lbuttars@co.weber.ut.us