Mitas officer named Iowa Public Health Hero

Mitas officer named Iowa Public Health Hero

To the Press

The University of Iowa College of Public Health has recognized four leaders whose contributions across a range of disciplines are helping to promote better health and prevent disease throughout the state of Iowa. Among those 2015 Iowa Public Health Heroes is Gerald Edgar of Garner, the environmental health and safety officer for Mitas Tires North America in Charles City. The award recipients, who were nominated by their peers in the Iowa public health practice community, were honored Nov. 17 at the 16th Annual Iowa Public Health Practice Colloquium, “Envisioning Public Health and Primary Care in 2030: Exploring Strategies to Create Successful Futures Together,” in Iowa City. College of Public Health Dean Sue Curry said the annual Iowa Public Health Heroes Awards celebrate the exceptional efforts of Iowa’s public health practitioners and recognize individuals from diverse career paths who have worked to improve health and wellness throughout Iowa.

“All Iowans benefit from the efforts of these outstanding individuals,” Curry said. “They are tireless and effective champions of public health who are dedicated to promoting environmental responsibility, preventing injuries, safeguarding against disease, and advocating for effective health policies for all Iowans.”

The other 2015 Iowa Public Health Heroes Awards were Russell Currier, executive vice president of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine; Jeneane Moody, executive director of the Iowa Public Health Association; and Jodi Tomlonvic, executive director of the Family Planning Council of Iowa.

Edgar is responsible for the environmental health and safety (EH & S) functions at Mitas Tires North America. When the plant opened in 2012, Edgar created and implemented all of the EH & S programs, training and monitoring systems.

Edgar