New health director is named

Mar. 2—LAURINBURG — After what was described as an extensive search, Scotland County finally has a new health director.

Elisha "Eli" Caldwell was sworn in on Monday by Scotland County Clerk to the Board of Commissioners Jason Robinson.

"Mr. Caldwell takes the place of Kristen Patterson, who left to take a position in Durham County," said Robinson in a press release. "Mr. Caldwell is married with four children and has spent time working with international nongovernmental organizations including the International Rescue Committee, the Catholic Medical Mission Board and the University of Virginia School of Medicine Division of Infectious Disease and International Health."

Caldwell brings a wealth of public health knowledge, specifically in the areas of primary health care, global and international health care, program management and leadership.

Born in Liberia and immigrating to the United States, Caldwell holds a master's degree in public health and global health from Liberty University and is a doctoral candidate in health care administration and management at Franklin University.

"Mr. Caldwell has also authored a book, 'Contemporary Issues in the U.S. Healthcare Debate'," said Robinson. "Mr. Caldwell is happy to be in Scotland County and excited about becoming the health director in this challenging time."

Caldwell presented COVID updates to the Board of Commissioners for the first time during its regular meeting Monday night and stated he looks forward to working with the board and for the county.

"Disease has no borders and I look forward to working with the staff at the health department to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and leading the department into the future," said Caldwell.

JJ Melton can be reached at [email protected] To support the Laurinburg Exchange, subscribe here: https://www.laurinburgexchange.com/subscribe.