Damōn Chaplin Takes Charge as NACCHO's New Board President for 2025-2026

NACCHO Welcomes New Leadership

On July 1, 2025, Damōn Chaplin, MBA and Health Commissioner for the City of Minneapolis Health Department, was announced as the new President of the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) for the 2025-2026 term. This association represents over 3,300 local health departments nationwide, serving as a crucial platform for public health officials.

Chaplin comes with over 25 years of rich experience in public health, having worked in various capacities including local and state government systems as well as non-profit organizations. His tenure has been marked by strategic initiatives focusing on crucial public health issues such as substance abuse, racial equity in healthcare access, and climate-related health initiatives. Under his leadership, the Minneapolis Health Department addresses pressing community needs, serving a population exceeding 425,000 residents.

In his first comments as President, Chaplin expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with local health officials across the nation. He emphasized the importance of amplifying local voices to enhance public health resources and functioning, stating, "I am excited about this unique opportunity to collaborate with colleagues, board members, and associates across the country."

The NACCHO Board of Directors consists of 22 members, including officials elected from local and tribal health settings, guiding the strategic direction for public health practices nationwide. Chaplin’s election comes at a time of pivotal change within the public health landscape, where ongoing challenges necessitate robust leadership and adaptability.

Before serving in Minneapolis, Chaplin was the Director for the City of New Bedford Health Department in Massachusetts and played a significant role in statewide public health initiatives at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. His past positions encompass various leadership roles that brought him to the forefront of public health strategy development and implementation.

NACCHO’s CEO, Lori Tremmel Freeman, expressed her honor in welcoming Chaplin, highlighting his proven leadership experience across diverse jurisdictions. Freeman believes Chaplin’s dedication to enhancing public health infrastructure will significantly strengthen NACCHO’s mission to serve the local health departments effectively.

As a reflection of his commitment to public welfare, Chaplin is focused on three critical areas during his presidency:
1. Substance Abuse: Tackling the nexus between substance abuse and homelessness in Minnesota takes precedence in his agenda.
2. Racial Equity: Chaplin aims to bridge gaps in healthcare access among diverse populations, underscoring his belief that health equity is fundamental to community well-being.
3. Climate Initiatives: The Climate Legacy Initiative in Minneapolis seeks to address environmental impacts on health, promoting sustainable solutions.

With a background that encompasses both administrative roles and community engagement, Chaplin is poised to leverage NACCHO as a platform for significant public health advancements. He envisions collaborative efforts that engage local health departments, stakeholders, and community partners to optimize health outcomes for all communities.

As he begins his tenure, the road ahead looks collaborative. With a commitment to fostering a unified public health community, Chaplin allows optimism to flourish, recommending dedicated efforts to address the evolving health landscape. By harnessing the collective expertise within NACCHO and engaging with local health departments, his leadership looks to create a roadmap that prioritizes health as a communal goal.

In conclusion, Damōn Chaplin’s leadership as NACCHO’s Board President symbolizes a renewed commitment to advancing local health initiatives amid changing public health dynamics. Through steadfast collaboration at the national level, Chaplin aims to uplift every local health department, ensuring that they thrive in their mission to protect public health.