As President, it is my honor to welcome you to the 88^th West Virginia Public Health Association Annual Conference at Oglebay Resort and Conference Center.  This year’s conference theme is “A Healthier West Virginia Begins Today.” 

This year has been a whirlwind on both a personal and professional level.  Professionally, because, as you all know, it can be difficult keeping pace with the ever-changing world of Public Health, and personally because I became a new mother.   

I can’t help but draw comparisons between the two:  both are sometimes thankless, but always rewarding jobs with someone else’s best interest in mind.  This Association membership is made up of several disciplines, but we share the same vision. Although we don’t always receive recognition for our efforts, we continue to work diligently toward what is in the best interest of public health in this state.   

May this conference provide a great opportunity to learn and network, share experience and expertise, and allow us to take full advantage of the wisdom of our diverse and devoted workforce.   I sincerely hope that you enjoy the conference and can leave armed with newfound knowledge and confidence to continue your work toward a healthier West Virginia. 

It has been a privilege to serve as President of the West Virginia Public Health Association and I am very grateful for the opportunity.  Thank you very much to the Executive Council and Planning Committee.  Your hard work toward conference planning, as well as your other duties, does not go unnoticed or unappreciated.

I look forward to seeing you at Oglebay!

Sincerely,

Jessica Douglas