Riley County, KS – Diane Creek started work Monday, December 9 as the new Health Department Director for Riley County. In this role, Creek will also serve as the Local Health Officer, leading the department’s mission to promote and protect the health of Riley County residents.
As Health Department Director, Creek will oversee department programs and services, review agency activities, ensure compliance with local, state, and federal statutes, and collaborate with community partners to address complex public health issues. The position is authorized by state law (K.S.A. 65-202) as well as local resolutions and ordinances.
Creek brings a wealth of experience in public health, social work, and administration to the county. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Kansas State University, Creek started her career at the Salina Health Department working with high-risk pregnant and parenting mothers. She went on to earn a Master’s Degree in social work from Washburn University.
Creek has held key positions at the Shawnee County Health Department, and the Toe River Health District as director during the COVID-19 pandemic. These experiences have fueled her passion for addressing critical public health challenges, including rural community outreach, preparedness, and drug recovery initiatives.
“Diane has demonstrated a strong commitment to public health and the well-being of communities,” said Commission Chairman John Ford. “Her extensive experience and innovative mindset make her an excellent fit to lead our Health Department and strengthen services in Riley County.”
Creek shared her enthusiasm for the role, saying, “Everything about who I am and what I believe has led me to be passionate about public health. I want my work to make life better for everybody in the community, not just a select few. There are a lot of opportunities here to connect with other organizations, reach out to rural residents to ask what they need, and build new and stronger connections.”