2024 Public Health Hero - SallyLopez

Celia “Sally” Lopez, Public Health Nurse II - Longer-serving employees who’ve made an impact in their departments and/or community
Sally Lopez began her devoted Public Health Nurse (PHN) career in 1988 at the then county-run Valley Medical Center before joining the DPH Public Health Nursing division in 1990. Throughout her tenure, Sally worked in various programs, including general nursing, communicable disease, elderly care, parenting support, and immunizations.
Sally has always committed herself to providing compassionate care and this was a major reason she was handpicked for the Foster Care program in September 2009. Still in this role, she provides consultation and supports social workers in interpreting medical records. She and her dedicated nursing team ensure the 2,600 foster children in their care are provided linkages to necessary services.
One of Sally's most cherished cases involved a pregnant 17-year-old foster child. Sally provided continuous support, helping her overcome fears of losing her baby. With Sally's guidance, the foster child stayed in the system until she was 21 and eventually became an LVN. She remained in touch with Sally for the next few years, providing updates on her life, including having a second child. Sally is proof that it only takes one person to create a profound impact on others, inspiring them to them to pursue a similar career path.
Sally has become an invaluable mentor for the next generation of PHNs. She advises staff around her to give their best efforts and to treat foster children as their own. She feels privileged to have served these children and is grateful for every experience. Sally will tentatively retire with the county on July 11, 2024. The Department of Public Health thanks her for the many years of tireless service to the community and for being an avid supporter of foster youth.