Jana Barfield ratified as administrator of FDOH in Jackson County

By: Shelia Mader

County Administrator Jim Dean presented the request and introduced Becky Keyes, chief of Medical Health Services, to speak on Barfield’s qualifications.

Keyes told commissioners Barfield has more than 20 years of public health leadership experience across Florida. She currently serves as the statewide nursing director, overseeing clinical quality and nursing practice for all 67 county health departments. Keyes also noted Barfield previously served as interim administrator in Seminole County, where she supervised more than 110 employees and managed a $13 million budget.

“She has extensive oversight of core public health programs, strong community partnership building, and significant emergency preparedness leadership,” Keyes said. “We’re fortunate to have her experience supporting our public health system, and we request that you concur with her appointment to this position.”

Barfield thanked the board and said it was an honor to return to serve her home county.

“I have over 20 years of public health experience at the local and state level,” Barfield said. “It’s a privilege and an honor to be able to come back to Jackson County and serve in this role. I’m a lifelong resident, born and raised here, and I started my public health career here at the Jackson County Health Department in 2007. I look forward to working with you and our community partners to promote, protect and improve the health of Jackson County.”

During the discussion, commissioners welcomed Barfield and noted their appreciation for seeing someone from Jackson County step into the role. Barfield told the board she currently lives in the Green Ridge community.

Chairman Jamey Westbrook then called for a motion to approve the ratification. The motion received a second and passed unanimously.

Commissioner Paul Donofro welcomed Barfield to the position, and Westbrook said the board looked forward to hearing from her in the future.