Algoma Public Health
Public Health Spotlight
WHAT IS THE 'PUBLIC HEALTH SPOTLIGHT'?
Our 'Public Health Spotlight' provides insight into those individuals and organizations who have impacted their community towards positive change. Every year Algoma Public Health receives nominations through its Public Health Champion award, and although only one nominee per category can be selected, we wanted to continue to honour these outstanding public health leaders throughout the year.
Our first 'Public Health Spotlight' focuses on public service stalwart and Thessalon resident: Brent Rankin
BRENT RANKIN
Policy change is a vital component of some of the work we do in public health. Health equity and access to care is a critical element in the overall wellness of our communities. Both in Sault Ste. Marie and across the District, Brent Rankin has for many years and continues today to serve as an advocate for policy change and access to care. Though much of his work has been behind-the-scenes, Brent’s passion for the community of Thessalon and the region, combined with his focus on health equity and access, is something he continues to put into practice, both professionally and through community service. One of Brent’s many strengths is bringing people and organizations together to coordinate positive outcomes, including senior level government politicians and bureaucrats.
Brent channels his passion for health equity and access to care into his volunteer work, having served, at one time or another over the past 40 years, on area boards and committees, including the Algoma District Homes of the Aged, the Algoma District School Board, Sault Area Hospital, the F. J. Davey Nursing Home, and as a former Mayor of the Town of Thessalon.
Brent has been recognized regionally and provincially for his community service, including a Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration Volunteer Service Award, an Ontario Community Newspaper Association Community Award, and a Shell Canada Limited recognition for dedicated service to his community and area. These accolades along with his influence as a policy-change practitioner is why he is reflected as one of APH’s Public Health Partners.