Published: October 02, 2026
CATAWBA COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH NAMED NC HEALTH DEPARTMENT OF THE YEAR
HICKORY – The North Carolina Public Health Association has named Catawba County Public Health as the Sarah Morrow Health Department of the Year at its annual awards ceremony on October 1. The award recognizes the department’s work to protect and improve the health of all Catawba County residents.
“This award is one of the highest honors a health department in North Carolina can achieve and it represents the tremendous effort each of our team members puts into their work each day to serve the people of Catawba County,” said Catawba County Public Health Director Jennifer McCracken.
Projects highlighted in the nomination include the Linking Inmates to Health Resources initiative, which fills gaps related to the Social Determinants of Health for inmates prior to release; the Walk Your Block initiative, which advances healthier, safer communities; our Social Connection Plan, which addresses social connection as a protective health factor for both mental and physical health; Initiatives with youth-serving organizations to address youth mental health and offering a free online mental health platform for all county residents; and the Public Health Farmers Market, which offers residents access to nutritious local produce. These projects would not have been possible without the investment of individuals and agencies across the county.
“Across every program and strategy, Catawba County Public Health engages residents, trusted community leaders, healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations, local governments, and cross-sector partners to co-create solutions addressing community needs,” said McCracken. “By focusing on collaboration and listening to the community, we are building a long-term approach to improving health, well-being, and a sense of belonging for all residents.”
This is the third state-level award that has recognized Catawba County Public Health’s work this year. Earlier this year, Health Director Jennifer McCracken was recognized as state Health Director of the Year by the North Carolina Association of Local Health Directors and William “Bill” Pitts III was recognized as the Carl Durham Award recipient from the North Carolina Association of Boards of Health.
“These three awards are like winning the Triple Crown and demonstrate Catawba County Public Health’s excellence across all program areas and excellence in leadership,” said McCracken.
