MADISON, Wis. — Julie Willems Van Dijk, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ deputy secretary, is retiring this month after more than 40 years of working as a nurse and public health leader.
Gov. Tony Evers made the announcement Friday saying Willems Van Dijk’s work with DHS has been “essential” to the state’s COVID-19 response.
“Julie’s been an essential part of our state’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, and it is not an overstatement to say her work and leadership have saved lives,” Evers said. “Having spent 40 years dedicated to public good and the health and safety of folks in this state, Julie is the embodiment of public service.
Willems Van Dijk worked as a nurse prior to her time with DHS.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve in the role of Deputy Secretary,” Willems Van Dijk said. “I am especially proud of the way our staff across DHS and all of state government came together to protect the people of Wisconsin during the COVID-19 pandemic. I thank Governor Evers and Secretary-designee Timberlake for their trust and support, and after nearly 40 years of service as a nurse and public health leader, it is time that I recommit to the needs of my family.”
Willems Van Dijk plans to leave the department on Friday, Sept. 10. Deb Standridge, who previously worked as executive director of the state’s alternate care facility at State Fair Park, will take over as DHS’ deputy secretary. Standridge will start in her new role the week after Willems Van Dijk leaves.
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