Central District Health Announces New Director

BOISE, May 19, 2026 – The Central District Health (CDH) Board is pleased to announce that Kristin Ryan was chosen as the agency’s new director.

Ryan most recently worked at the City of Boise as Deputy Director of Shared Services. Prior to that she was a Deputy Director for the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality for three years. Before moving to Boise, she held executive level positions in Alaska with the Department of Environmental Conservation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency starting in 2002.

Board Chair Dr. Greg Ferch says, “We were looking for someone who understands the role of government, and the importance of responsibly using public funds to fulfill the mission of CDH. The board is confident that Kristin is the right person to lead our four-county public health agency and carry on the legacy of Director Duke.”

Ryan says, “I am honored to have this opportunity and look forward to building on the strong foundation and partnerships that have allowed CDH to make a positive difference in the health of the communities we serve.”

Ryan replaces Russ Duke who is retiring after serving as the director for the last 20 years. Duke is committed to ensuring a seamless transition of vision, culture, and performance.

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Media Contacts:

Central District Health
Stephanie Geanopulos, Communications Manager
208-327-8639 | Cell: 208-871-1712
sgeanopulos@cdh.idaho.gov