Illinois Public Health Director Doctor Ngozi (en-gahzi) Ezike (eh-zee-kay) is leaving her position later this month and served her last day Tuesday. Doctor Ezike has been running the department of public health for the last three years and has helped guide the state through the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor JB Pritzker praised her for her hard work over the last three years.

March 14th will be Dr. Ezike’s last day.  She spent much of her time working long hours and daily press conferences during the pandemic, and provided data and information to the public in both English and Spanish. She says she was up to the challenge.

A former pediatrician, Dr. Ezike is the first black woman to serve as Illinois Public Health Director.  She says she has no immediate plans other than to spend time with her family. The agency’s assistant director will take over until a permanent replacement is found.