Letter from the Health Officer: Remembering Dr. Douglas Mack
Dear Community Member,
Embracing new challenges is never easy, but it helps to have great role models. I remember well my first few days here at the Kent County Health Department more than 25 years ago. I was a fresh-faced young sanitarian who had recently relocated from the Upper Peninsula to start a new career. Much of the awkwardness of being the “new guy” was brushed aside after a chance encounter with one of the most interesting people I’ve ever met: Dr. Douglas Mack.
He was a seasoned Health Officer at the time. As we crossed paths in the hallway, he said, “Hey, new guy, I see you like rocks… follow me.” As it turns out, he had noticed a collection of Petoskey stones, agate, and other specimens in my cubicle. He spent the next hour showing me his collection of rocks from mountains he had climbed around the world. Even more priceless than the rocks themselves was the encouragement, inspiration, and career advice he shared that afternoon. We went on to have several similar conversations in the following months, until he retired. I’ve often wondered if he had any idea that he had been conversing with the young fella who would one day too become Kent County’s Health Officer.
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Dr. Douglas Mack passed away in late January at the age of 90. Being an inspiration to me, and many others, was only a small part of his legacy. During his time as Health Officer, which spanned from about 1976 to 2000, he led the county’s public health response to the HIV/AIDS crisis, initiated sweeping changes to improve maternal and infant health outcomes, strengthened the regional laboratory system, and was a constant force for collaboration. In fact, collaboration was such a powerful part of his identity that we honor his legacy each summer with the “Dr. Douglas Mack Award," recognizing a team member who exemplifies his spirit of partnership and teamwork. You can see an example of this award to in the image to the left.
Dr. Mack positively impacted the lives of countless Kent County residents in ways many will never realize, because their suffering was prevented. As we reflect on his life, my hope is that we follow his lead—by noticing others, encouraging them, and doing what we can, together, to make this place better for everyone.
Adam London, PhD, RS, DAAS
Administrative Health Officer
Pictured in the top left is this year’s Dr. Douglas Mack Award, presented to Olivia Pina for exemplifying teamwork and collaboration.
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Another Leader's Lasting Impact: Wishing Joann Hoganson Well in Retirement
After nearly 20 years working with us as the Community Wellness Division Director, Joann Hoganson is retiring—leaving behind a legacy defined not only by meaningful programs and community impact, but by a deep commitment to the people inside of these walls.
"Joann has exemplified purpose-driven public service to the people of Kent County," said Dr. Adam London, Kent County Health Officer. "Her passionate determination to help the most vulnerable, especially babies and young families, has made this a healthier community."
Known for her thoughtful guidance and willingness to be a mentor to those in need, Hoganson has shaped generations of leaders while guiding countless staff and community partners along the way.
“My role has always been to support my team so they can support the community,” she said. “I see myself as their advocate, cheerleader, and biggest fan. My success depends on their success.”
Learn more about Hoganson's journey and impact by clicking the interactive button below.
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Continuing the Work: Supporting Women’s Heart Health Through the WISEWOMAN Program
As we celebrate Joann Hoganson’s legacy of leadership and heart, we’re also highlighting the important work her division continues every day—especially during American Heart Month.
One example is our WISEWOMAN program, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded initiative through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The program focuses on preventing cardiovascular disease by identifying risk factors early and supporting healthier lifestyles.
When women enroll, they receive a comprehensive health assessment that includes:
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- Hemoglobin A1C (to screen for diabetes risk)
Using these results, our team helps participants understand their health risks and take meaningful steps forward. Health coaches work one-on-one with each woman to set realistic goals, improve nutrition and physical activity, manage stress, and build lasting habits in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.
To learn more about the WISEWOMAN program and find out if you're eligible, give us a call at 616-632-7294 or email wisewoman@kentcountymi.gov.
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Put Your Heart Into Self-Care: STI Screening Available
This February, as we celebrate American Heart Month and Valentine’s Day, is the perfect time to show yourself some love. Prioritizing your sexual health is an important part of self-care, for you and your partner.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are very common, with millions of new cases each year in the U.S. The good news? They're also preventable, and we’re here to help.
At our Personal Health Services Clinic, you can:
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Learn about your risks for STIs and HIV
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Get guidance on safer sex practices
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Receive testing and treatment if needed
Because many STIs have no symptoms, regular testing is important. Taking just a few minutes can prevent bigger health concerns and give you peace of mind. We provide free HIV and Syphilis testing, as well as free Gonorrhea and Chlamydia testing for those who qualify. Call us at 616-632-7100 to schedule an appointment!
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Radon Test Kit Reminder: Don’t Forget to Send Yours In
For the second year in a row, we partnered with the Kent District Library (KDL) to help make radon testing easier and more accessible for Kent County residents. We gave out more than 1,200 kits, each one representing a household taking an important step to protect their long-term health.
Here’s a breakdown of where kits were distributed:
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Plainfield Branch: 202 kits
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Cascade Branch: 200 kits
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Grandville Branch: 101 kits (despite bad weather)
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Kentwood Branch: 73 kits (even worse weather)
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Fuller distribution: 656 kits
Now that you have your kit, don’t forget to complete the test and send it in! Properly testing your home is the only way to know your radon levels and take steps to reduce long-term lung cancer risk.
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Your Voice Matters: Help Shape Kent County's Health Priorities
Every three years, we partner with hospitals and community organizations across Kent County to conduct the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA)—a collaborative process that identifies the top health-related needs and the resources to address them. Think of it as a “wellness check” for our community, helping us see what’s working and where we can improve.
Why Your Input Matters
The CHNA isn’t just about numbers. It combines public health data with input directly from residents and community organizations, capturing both statistics and lived experiences. Thousands of residents have shared their perspectives in past cycles, helping guide program decisions, funding, and policies across the county.
What Data We Collect
To get a clear picture of health in Kent County, we collect a mix of information on:
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Health outcomes, including disease prevalence and mental health status
- Behaviors and health risk factors
- Community experiences accessing services
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Social, environmental, and economic factors that affect health
All survey responses are anonymous, and data is reported only in summary form. The results will guide a three-year Community Health Improvement Plan, aligning hospitals, public health, and community organizations around shared priorities.
This spring and summer, you may be contacted through surveys, community meetings, or other outreach. Please consider participating, as your input helps shape the future of health in Kent County!
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People’s Champion Award: Marlene Kroft Brings Positivity to Every Interaction
Each month, the previous recipient of the People’s Champion Award selects the next winner—a way for us to celebrate staff who go above and beyond. This time around, the award goes to Marlene Kroft, whose positive attitude and helpfulness make a difference every day.
Kroft consistently brings a friendly, professional demeanor to every interaction, whether in person or over the phone. She goes above and beyond in coordinating deliveries and shipments, making herself available to assist whenever needed. Her reliability, approachability, and willingness to help keep daily operations running smoothly and support our teams in meaningful ways.
Kroft's dedication, positivity, and collaborative spirit make her a well-deserved recipient of the People’s Champion Award. Congratulations!
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Give Back to Your Community: Apply to Join Our Team
Are you passionate about helping others and supporting community health? We'd love to have you join our team!
Here are the roles we’re hiring for right now within our Community Clinical Services Division:
Working here means serving your neighbors, strengthening our community, and being part of a team that truly cares. We hope you’ll consider joining us.
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