LEONARDTOWN, MD (October 21, 2026) – The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) announces that Dr. Meena Brewster will conclude her service as St. Mary’s County Health Officer on December 8, 2026, following 14 years of leading the agency.

SMCHD is working closely with the St. Mary’s County Government and Maryland Department of Health to ensure continuity of leadership, operations, and services during this transition. The department’s experienced leadership team will play a central role in maintaining essential public health programs and community partnerships. Additional information regarding interim leadership and the selection of the next Health Officer will be shared as it becomes available.

“Serving as Health Officer for St. Mary’s County has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life,” said Dr. Brewster. “I am profoundly grateful to our extraordinary team, county leadership, community partners, and the residents who have placed their trust in us.  Whatever we have accomplished has been possible because people across this community came together with a shared commitment to improving health and well-being. I am incredibly proud of what we have built together and have tremendous confidence in the team that will carry this important work forward.”

“Dr. Brewster’s leadership and dedication over the past 14 years have made a lasting impact on the health and well-being of St. Mary’s County residents,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy. “On behalf of the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, I extend our sincere appreciation for her years of service and wish her continued success in her next chapter.”

Since Brewster’s appointment in 2012, SMCHD has significantly expanded its services, partnerships, and organizational capacity. Major initiatives developed during her tenure include the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, school-based health centers, public health laboratories, and expanded behavioral health and community wellness services. In 2021, SMCHD achieved national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board, reflecting the department’s commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

SMCHD programs have earned state and national recognition for innovation. The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) recognized the Health Hub and Asthma Control Program as Model Practices, along with several other initiatives as Promising Practices. The Health Hub also received awards from the Maryland Association of Counties and the Maryland Public Health Association.

Dr. Brewster currently serves on the NACCHO Board of Directors and previously served as Co-Chair of the Maryland Commission on Public Health and President of the Maryland Association of County Health Officers. In 2026, she received NACCHO’s National Champion of Local Governmental Public Health Award.

SMCHD remains committed to protecting and promoting the health and well-being of St. Mary’s County residents. For information on department programs, services, and leadership transition updates, visit smchd.org.

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