The Umatilla County Public Health Department on Dec. 31, 2024, announced Dr. Deborah Woodbury is the county's new health officer effective Jan. 1, 2025. She succeeds Dr. Jonathan Hitzman, who has stepped down after more than a decade in the position.

PENDLETON — The Umatilla County Public Health Department has a new health officer.

The county health department on Dec. 31 announced Dr. Jonathan Hitzman has stepped down after more than a decade in the position, and Dr. Deborah Woodbury succeeded him effective Jan. 1.

Woodbury works at Pendleton Family Medicine as a full service family practitioner and “brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to public health,” according to the county, having practiced family medicine for more than 25 years.

Umatilla County Public Health Director Joseph Fiumara in the announcement said his department is excited to welcome Woodbury to the team.

“Her vision and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to work towards a healthier Umatilla County,” he said.

The health department also praised the work of Hitzman, saying his “commitment to public health has left a lasting impact on our community.”

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve UCo Health and our residents,” Hitzman said in the announcement. “I look forward to supporting Dr. Woodbury as she takes on this important role and continues to advance our mission.”

For more information about UCo Health and our initiatives, visit UCohealth.net.