The Sangamon County Board approved the nomination of John Ridley as the Director of the Sangamon County Department by a unanimous and bipartisan vote at the October board meeting.
The selection of Ridley followed an extensive search and interview process conducted by a committee comprised of County Board and Board of Health members. This interview process provided valuable insights into Ridley's qualifications and his dedication to the field of healthcare.
Upon accepting the nomination, Ridley expressed his gratitude, stating, "I am honored and grateful for the committee's confidence in my abilities. I look forward to working closely with the County Board and the County Board of Health. I believe we can effectively manage a successful department that serves our community's healthcare needs."
Ridley's healthcare career showcases a diverse range of experiences, making him exceptionally well-suited for his new role. Most recently, he served as a System Administrator at Memorial Health, playing a vital role in the health system's administration team and leading multiple specialty clinics and post-acute care services across the system.
James Schackmann, Chair of the Public Health Committee, shared his perspective, saying, "We are confident that Mr. Ridley will be an immediate asset to the county. His expertise and dedication will undoubtedly benefit our residents."
A native of Springfield, Ridley served six years of active duty in the United States Navy. Following his military service, Ridley earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Administration from the University of Illinois-Springfield and a Master's degree in Healthcare Delivery Science from Dartmouth College. He is married with two children.