09/30/2025
ROME, GA: Avelina Guzman, a business support analyst in the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Women, Infants, and Children’s (WIC) nutritional service program, was recently honored at the Georgia Public Health Association (GPHA) annual meeting with the Nutrition Outstanding Leadership Award.
The award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the field of public health nutrition, including significant contributions to advancing nutrition practices, policy, education, and community health initiatives within Georgia that align with GPHA's mission to promote evidence-based public health strategies for healthier communities.
Guzman has been employed with the department’s ten-county Northwest Health District, headquartered in Rome, for 16 years. She holds an undergraduate degree in business administration from Shorter University and a dual master’s degree in business administration and information systems from Kennesaw State University. Guzman began her public health career as a WIC traveling interpreter, serving the Northwest Health District’s Hispanic community. Her most recent initiatives include the strategic deployment of the digital eWIC system and the creation of an electronic filing system.
Northwest Health District WIC Nutrition Service Director Dr. Cicely Thomas says “Avelina’s efforts and accomplishments reflect her commitment to seamless program execution and the empowerment of local WIC clinics through technological advancements and optimized communication. She has our heartfelt congratulations.” Dr. Gary Voccio, health director for the Northwest Health District, says “Avelina’s visionary guidance and unwavering commitment to advancing nutritional health have inspired countless lives and set a shining example for public health leaders everywhere. Her recognition is well deserved.”
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The Georgia Department of Public Health Northwest Health District works to track and prevent the spread of disease; promote health, safety, and wellbeing through education and communication; and prepare for, respond to, and ensure our communities are ready to handle public health emergencies, thereby improving the quality of life for individuals and families in ten northwest Georgia counties: Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Floyd, Gordon, Haralson, Paulding, Polk and Walker. Our county health departments provide a variety of medical services; monitor area environmental safety, including restaurant inspections; and help ensure their communities are prepared for disasters. Find us on the web at www.nwgapublichealth.org. Follow us on Facebook to receive news, emergency messages, and health-and-safety information at www.facebook.com/NorthwestHealthDistrict.
Georgia WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) provides nutrition education, healthy food, breastfeeding support, and healthcare referrals to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age five to promote their health and development.
