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Another Richmond-area public health official is heading to City Hall

Another Richmond-area public health official is heading to City Hall
Amy Popovich (City of Richmond)

Richmond Mayor Danny Avula’s administration announced Wednesday that the city is hiring a longtime public health official to a high-ranking City Hall job as deputy chief administrative officer for human services.

Amy Popovich — who previously served as nurse manager for the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts —will start work for the city on April 28 as a replacement for departing DCAO for Human Services Traci DeShazor.

“I am so excited for Amy to add her incredible depth of compassion, collaboration, and expertise to the City of Richmond,” Avula said in a news release. “I’ve seen firsthand what she can accomplish and the level of servant leadership she brings to a team.”

Avula, a doctor with a public health background, served as director of the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts before getting into city politics.

Popovich’s former work in the city included a focus on expanding health clinics in Richmond’s public housing developments, according to Style Weekly.

In her new government position, Popovich will help oversee several departments that “enhance economic stability and improve health outcomes and the overall wellbeing of Richmonders across all stages of life,” according to the city. 

The departments that fall under human services include: 

  • Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities
  • Department of Social Services
  • Richmond Public Library
  • Office of Community Wealth Building
  • Department of Neighborhood and Community Services
  • Department of Justice Services

In the city’s announcement, City Council President Cynthia Newbille said she’s “very familiar” with Popovich and her work.

“The departments that make up the City’s Human Services portfolio serve residents all across Richmond, including some of the most vulnerable, and I have no doubt Amy will build on her experience and thrive in her new role as DCAO for Human Services,” Newbille said.

DeShazor, who was hired under former Mayor Levar Stoney, had been in the role since 2023.

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