Dr. Amy Acton is leaving her employment at the state of Ohio.
Dr. Acton had previously stepped down from her role as the head of the Ohio Department of Health, but had remained on as an advisor to Governor Mike DeWine.
The governor made the announcement Tuesday. He says Dr. Acton has chosen to return to the Columbus Foundation, where she had been working prior to joining the state to head the health department.
Dr. Acton became a household name in 2020, appearing frequently with the governor in the early days of the pandemic. She inspiring videos of girls who want to be like her, articles in publications worldwide, and lawsuits involving postponed elections and shuttered businesses.
It was her signature that officially postponed the March primary election, an action that resulted in one of the lawsuits that were filed. The ongoing public health orders generated criticism, including protesters who targeted Dr. Acton’s home, and also inspiring counter-protests.
The ongoing orders that also closed businesses and a variety of public gatherings also generated criticism, including protesters who targeted Dr. Acton’s home, and also inspiring counter-protests.
“It saddens me for her to be leaving our office. She has assured me though that she is just a phone call away, or a text away, and she will be available to continue advising me as we move through this panemic,” said Governor DeWine in the news conference Tuesday.
“Fran and I again want to thank Dr. Acton for everything that she has done for the state of Ohio and the people of Ohio. Her knowledge of and passion for public health helped position Ohio as well as we could be as we faced the early stages of COVID-19. Her wealth of knowledge combined with her calming bedside manner helped many of her fellow Ohioans. And in the face of criticism, she remained strong, resolute, determined and brave. "
Before becoming the director at ODH, Dr. Acton had worked with The Columbus Foundation, The Ohio State University, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and other organizations. She earned her medical degree from Northeastern University.
Cox Media Group
