Immunize Nevada hires new executive director

RENO–Immunize Nevada this week said it has hired Sherilyn Duckworth to lead the organization in advocating for vaccination and supporting COVID-19 efforts in the state. Duckworth started at the nonprofit Jan. 18 and replaces Heidi Parker who left the organization after more than 15 years at the helm.

Duckworth was hired as executive director after a nationwide search. Before relocating to Nevada, she worked for the CDC Foundation in Atlanta, Georgia, leading a team of COVID-19 disease investigators and coordinating resources. Duckworth in 2018 also founded a nonprofit, A Friend of Mind, that develops and implements suicide prevention programs.

“Public service is the hallmark of my career and I have worked diligently to better understand how to improve outreach efforts to diverse, disadvantaged and different communities. I’m genuinely excited to bring my expertise to the state of Nevada in this next chapter,” said Dr. Duckworth. “Immunize Nevada has been working tirelessly to protect Nevadans from COVID-19 infection and limit community spread. As the world continues navigating the complexities of this pandemic, I’m eager to throw my shoulder to the wheel with such a dedicated and informed team.”

Duckworth has both a Master of Public Health in Health Care Organization and Policy and a Doctor of Philosophy, Health Education and Promotion (Ph.D.).

In her role at Immunize Nevada, Duckworth will direct statewide coalition efforts to share public health information on vaccine-preventable diseases and advocate for vaccinations. The organization has offices in both Reno and Las Vegas.

Source: Immunize Nevada