Erin Minnerath was named executive director of Mesa County Public Health, the Mesa County Board of Public Health announced May 6, the same day she officially began her new role.

The board’s decision follows its decision in early April to name Minnerath the sole finalist for the position after a nationwide search that began in February and yielded more than 40 candidates from across the country. Minnerath had been doing the executive director’s job on an interim basis after Xavier Crockett resigned as executive director, effective Dec. 31.

“We are thrilled to welcome Erin as the new leader of our agency,” Board of Public Health Chair Marguerite Tuthill said. “Her unwavering dedication to promote and protect community health is matched only by her commitment to our staff. Erin truly embodies our core values, and we look forward to the growth she will bring to this next chapter of public service.”

Minnerath joined Mesa County Public Health in April 2024 as deputy director and oversaw the Health Protection, Health Promotion, and Behavioral Health divisions. She also served as incident commander during the agency’s measles response in the fall of 2025. Prior to joining MCPH, she led the Infection Prevention Team at St. Mary’s Regional Hospital, providing guidance throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is a privilege to lead such a talented and passionate team,” Minnerath said. “Having seen firsthand the dedication of our incredible staff, I am eager to build upon our agency’s strong foundation. Our staff is the backbone of this community’s wellbeing. We will continue to innovate and evolve to meet the unique health challenges of Mesa County.”