The Tompkins County Health Department is announcing new staff in two important leadership positions, both of which are key roles in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Claire Espey, Director of Community Health, and Patricia Mason, Preparedness Coordinator started at the Health Department on November 30.

"We are excited to have Claire and Pat join our team. They both bring experience and perspective that will help us through the pandemic and move our Department into the future. Claire has exhibited her passion for public health through her development work in Africa, allowing her to work across communities, local government, and policy. She brings leadership experience that will support the efforts of our nurses and contact tracers. Pat has worked at all levels of domestic government in emergency management and preparedness and will provide expertise to our COVID-19 vaccination distribution planning," stated Frank Kruppa, Public Health Director.

Claire spent the last ten years leading public health programming is east Africa. She has experience there with maternal and child health programs and the development of drinking water systems. She completed her Master of Public Health (MPH) at Columbia University and spent 4 years there as a program coordinator post-graduation.

Pat served most recently as the Senior Program Specialist in the Office of Emergency Management for the City of Aurora, Colorado. She has worked closely with Federal, State, and other local governments to ensure agency emergency preparedness plans will be effective and can implement protective measures in the event of any incident. She has extensive experience in the management and evaluation of preparedness exercises. Pat completed her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) at Empire State College and is working on a master's degree program in Homeland Security.

Additionally, the Health Department is recruiting for two Community Health Nurses.

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