District Health Officer announces pending retirement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 5, 2024

LAS VEGAS – Dr. Fermin Leguen, District Health Officer of the Southern Nevada Health District, has announced plans to retire from his position on February 2025, marking the end of a tenure characterized by resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to public health.

Dr. Leguen first assumed the role of Acting District Health Officer in October 2019, a time when the world was on the brink of an unprecedented public health crisis. In January 2021, Dr. Leguen was officially appointed as District Health Officer. Under his leadership, the Health District not only responded to meet the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic but also expanded its services, increased its locations, and raised staffing levels, ensuring that the community’s health needs were met.

“Dr. Leguen has been an asset to the community and his leadership instrumental in strengthening the public health infrastructure that will continue to serve our community for years to come,” said Clark County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick, who serves as the chair of the Southern Nevada District Board of Health. “We wish him well and thank him for his service,” said Kirkpatrick.

Reflecting on his time at the agency, Dr. Leguen expressed his gratitude for the dedication and hard work of Health District staff members. “I have been inspired by the dedication, commitment and enthusiasm that our team brings to the Health District each and every day, and I’m thankful for all the achievements and contributions their efforts have brought to this community,” said Dr. Leguen.

As Dr. Leguen prepares to step down the Board of Health will begin the search for a new District Health Officer in the coming months. More details of the transition process will be discussed at the October Board of Health meeting.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.