Columbia News

Rebecca Roesslet, former assistant director of Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS), has been appointed as the next director of the department. Roesslet will be officially sworn in at the City Council meeting on October 7.

She assumes this role following the announcement of current PHHS Director Stephanie Browning’s retirement, which will take effect on October 11.

“Rebecca has brought years of passion to her work protecting the health of Boone County residents,” said City Manager De’Carlon Seewood. “Through her experience working during the COVID-19 pandemic and many other challenges over the years, she has proven herself as an effective and fervent leader.”

Roesslet has been with the health department since 2003. During her tenure, she has served in various capacities including social services specialist, social services supervisor, senior planner, planning unit supervisor, and assistant director.

Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in public health from the University of Missouri.

“I am honored to take responsibility for this department that works so diligently to provide essential services to residents,” Roesslet said. “My work at PHHS has been incredibly rewarding, and I look forward to continuing that in this new role.”