Chief Jim Furgerson named 2025 Public Health Champion

Congratulations to Western Taney County Fire Assistant Chief Jim Furgerson on being named the 2025 Public Health Champion! During National Public Health Week, Taney County Health Department(TCHD) staff nominate an outstanding partner, business, or organization that has gone above and beyond to support public health throughout the year.

The nomination reads: “Chief Furgerson is a strong supporter of fire safety. He often goes above and beyond to help withfacilities that need improvement and to build relationships in the community. He has been a valuablepartner to the Taney County Health Department and often assists with joint inspections. These effortshave educated more people about fire safety. By teaching and working with others, Chief Furgerson helpslodging facilities find ways to improve and solve problems together. He always takes time out of his dayto help however he can. His knowledge and dedication have made him an important part of both theEnvironmental Health Division and all of Taney County. As one of the Health Department’s biggestsupporters, he is always ready to help. Chief Furgerson is truly a champion for public health.”

This award recognizes champions who lead by example in advancing public health, work together with community partners, educate others, promote the well-being of residents, and find creative solutions that make a lasting difference. Chief Furgerson’s consistent dedication to collaborating on health and safetystandards reflects an ongoing commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the visitors and residents of Taney County.

“Chief Furgerson has been a friend of public health for many years now and we are excited to honor himas the 2025 Public Health Champion.” states Lisa Marshall, TCHD Director. “He always goes above andbeyond to serve the community and looks for every opportunity to partner with public health.”

Congratulations to Chief Jim Furgerson on receiving this well-deserved honor!