Baton Rouge, La. – October 3, 2023 – Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome is pleased to announce the appointment of Hope Hickerson as the new Executive Director of HealthyBR, the Mayor’s Healthy City Initiative.
With nearly two decades in the public health sector, Ms. Hickerson’s career spans roles in university health centers, healthcare organizations, and public health initiatives. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Community Health Education and a Master’s in Health Education & Promotion from East Carolina University, Ms. Hickerson's expertise is further broadened with a Master’s in Counselor Education from LSU, where she's also pursuing her PhD in Media & Public Affairs.
Hickerson was raised in North Carolina and ultimately came to Baton Rouge, where she started a family, met her husband, and had two children.
"Hope Hickerson's experience, combined with her passion for public health and her commitment to our community, makes her the ideal leader of HealthyBR," said Mayor Broome. "We are excited for the leadership and energy she will bring to this initiative."
The core mission of HealthyBR is to create a movement grounded in communication, coordination, and collaboration, all in the pursuit of promoting a healthier life for everyone in Baton Rouge. Key priorities include behavioral health, healthy living, maternal & infant health, addressing STIs, HIV, Hepatitis C, health equity & racial disparities, and violence prevention.
Initiatives led by HealthyBR, such as the Geaux Get Healthy program and the Community Health Needs Assessment under the Affordable Care Act, have made significant strides in addressing vital health issues in Baton Rouge.
In 2022, HealthyBR launched its new website, HealthyBR.com, becoming Baton Rouge's go-to place for health resources. The site offers a range of features, from a comprehensive community health resource directory to healthy recipes and free online fitness classes.
About HealthyBR:
HealthyBR, the Mayor's Healthy City Initiative, is committed to fostering a collaborative movement to promote a better and healthier life for all residents of Baton Rouge. Visit HealthyBR.com for resources, events, and more.