The Central Shenandoah Health District has announced its newest health director for 10 localities in Virginia.
Xavier Crockett comes to the region from Mesa County, Colo., where he served for two years as its health director. He left Mesa County Public Health on Dec. 31, 2025, citing personal reasons for his departure.
Crockett helped the MCPH get back into the black after assuming the role with a $1.3 million shortfall, according to reporting from The Daily Sentinel.
He also spent more than a decade as part of the Medical Reserve Corps.
He holds a Master of Science degree in disaster medicine and emergency management, and he is currently a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) candidate.
“I’m honored to be able to serve this community alongside our dedicated staff and community partners. It is important that CSHD remains responsive and accessible. We need to be able to meet the needs of our region now and in the future,” said Crockett, who assumed the role in January.
“Public health works best when it is visible, trusted and integrated into the daily lives of the communities we serve.”
In his new position with the Virginia Department of Health, Crockett plans to build regional partnerships and looks forward to supporting the public health workforce. He is focusing on strengthening access to services, maternal and child health programs and community-based prevention efforts across the district’s 10 localities.
The CSHD is one of 35 health districts in Virginia. The Central Shenandoah Health District includes the counties of Augusta, Bath, Highland, Rockbridge and Rockingham, and the cities of Buena Vista, Harrisonburg, Lexington, Staunton and Waynesboro.
Dr. Allison Baroco previously served as the health director for CSHD. She assumed the role in 2024.
Related stories
- Snow returns Friday, blizzard conditions possible in some parts of Virginia
- Weather experts offer snow predictions for the Shenandoah Valley, Appalachians
- Baroco named health director for Central Shenandoah Health District
- With flu cases on the rise, Virginia Department of Health continues push for vaccines
- Explainer: ‘Little things’ help families stay healthy from RSV, COVID, flu
Support AFP
Share
Crystal Graham
