(EL PASO COUNTY) — The El Paso County Public Health (EPCPH) announced on Wednesday, Jan. 22 that Executive Director Susan Wheelan will retire in March after a 25-year career with the agency.
On Wednesday, Jan. 22, the agency accounted Wheelan would retire on Monday, March 3.
Wheelan joined EPCPH in 1999 as an environmental health specialist. Over the years, she held various roles including public information officer, director administrative hearing officer, program manager of the Tobacco Education and Prevention Partnership, health promotion and disease prevention director, and deputy director.
In Sept. 2019, she was appointed as interim director and in February she was appointed as the agency’s executive director in Feb. 2019.
“Director Wheelan’s retirement leaves me with mixed emotions. First, I am so happy for Susan. Having reached 25 years of service, working through the challenges of the pandemic, she has grown both the efficiency and effectiveness of the agency,” said Ted Collas, El Paso County Board of Health President. “Susan has done an incredible job for the citizens of our County. However, I am also sad to part ways with a friend and colleague. Susan has set a high bar, and her replacement will have large shoes to fill.”
During her time as director, Wheelan increased the agency’s budget, expanded services, initiated Pikes Peak Rising 360, and more.
The agency said her leadership during emergencies such as Waldo Canyon and Black Forest wildfires, hepatitis-A outbreaks, and the COVID-19 pandemic showcased her ability to navigate crises with innovation and foresight.
“I am immensely proud of our Public Health team’s dedication, skill, and resilience in addressing challenges and meeting the needs of our community. I will always treasure the collaborative and meaningful work we’ve accomplished together with our partners to improve the health and well-being of the residents of El Paso County,” said Wheelan.
As Wheelan prepares to step down, the EPCPH said it will ensure a seamless leadership transition. with plans for recruitment and continuity of operations being announced in the coming weeks.
“I am confident in the strong foundation we have built together. The commitment and expertise of our team will assure that the agency is well-positioned for continued success,” said Wheelan.
