BOISE, Idaho — The former director of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Dave Jeppesen, was recognized Thursday for his service to the Gem State.
Jeppesen was presented the annual Kathie Garrett Impact Award, which is given by the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) Idaho to a "person or group that makes a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of the people of Idaho," a news release said.
Thursday's recognition comes after Jeppesen retired at the end of 2023. He was the head of Idaho Health and Welfare, the state's largest agency, since 2019.
"Very humbled, very honored," Jeppesen told KTVB. "There are are many people working so hard to improve behavioral health access and behavioral health services for people in Idaho. So, there's so many other people that are doing so much, I was surprised and humbled to be selected."
In a news release announcing Jeppesen's retirement last fall, Idaho Gov. Brad Little said he led IDHW "through major changes and improvements." The governor added he was appreciative of Jeppesen's service and accomplishments.
"Dave led the agency through major changes and improvements, and I join many, many people in Idaho in expressing my appreciation for his accomplishments and service," Idaho Gov. Brad Little said last fall in a news release announcing Jeppesen's retirement.
Kathie Garrett was the first recipient of the Impact Award, due to her selfless work to help Idahoans with their mental health live healthy, fulfilling lives.
The Impact Award was renamed in her honor after she received it in 2020, according to a news release.
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