[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 124 (Tuesday, July 26, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E777]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  TRIBUTE TO VAN DO-REYNOSO, PUBLIC HEALTH DIRECTOR, COUNTY OF SANTA 
                                BARBARA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SALUD O. CARBAJAL

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 26, 2022

  Mr. CARBAJAL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Van Do-
Reynoso, Public Health Director, County of Santa Barbara for her 
impeccable 5 years of service. Van served as Public Health Director 
since 2017, leading the Department through countless events and 
disasters, such as the Thomas Fire, the January 9, 2018, Montecito 
Debris Flow, and the COVID-19 pandemic. During each one of these 
events, Van always ensured that protecting the public health of the 
community was first and foremost.
  On January 21, 2020, when the first case of COVID-19 was reported in 
the United States, the spotlight was thrust towards Van and her 
dedicated team, and as always, Van did not let us down. Van's enduring 
passion to serve the residents and ensure equity for all in Santa 
Barbara County, led the Board of Supervisors to declare racism a public 
health emergency and found the Office of Health and Equity.
  Van is especially known for her ability to develop and mobilize 
partnerships to further the Public Health's mission, building deep 
collaborative relationships with community members and organizations 
across the County. Importantly, Van has worked tirelessly to have 
health care centers provide access to services beyond primary care, 
including telehealth, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. Van is 
also a strong advocate for Animal Services and ensuring the safety of 
animals in our community.
  As Van understands the calming effects and health benefits animals 
provide, Van introduced a Pet Policy for Public Health to allow pets in 
the workplace. Van's tireless energy, enthusiasm, empathy, and efforts 
to improve the lives and health status of all Santa Barbara County 
residents will always have the respect of her colleagues.
  Madam Speaker, Van Do-Reynoso leaves the Public Health Department, 
County of Santa Barbara in a strong place, well prepared to continue 
its mission to improve the health of our communities by preventing 
disease, promoting wellness and health equity, while ensuring access to 
needed health care, and maintaining a safe a healthy environment. I 
respectfully ask that you join me in expressing immense gratitude to 
Van Do-Reynoso for her 5 years of distinguished and dedicated public 
service.

                          ____________________