ST. LOUIS – Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis, the health director for the City of St. Louis, has officially resigned from her position.
The St. Louis Mayor’s Office tells FOX 2 that it accepted Davis’ resignation notice on Wednesday.
Davis was named the city’s health director in 2021 under former St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones.
Prior to then, she was an infectious disease physician and a prominent advocate in the fight against COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS.
Davis shared a statement with FOX 2 on her resignation Friday, which reads, in part:
“After much reflection, I have made the difficult decision to resign as Director of Health for the City of St. Louis. I will remain on during a transition period to support the department’s continued progress and ensure a smooth handoff.
“It has been a joy to lead this department and to serve alongside such brilliant and committed public health professionals. A strong foundation has been laid for the next leader to build upon and I know that the department will continue to excel. It has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life to serve this city, and I want to thank you all for the collaboration that has made this journey so meaningful.”
During her tenure, Davis says the city expanded the Department of Health’s staffing by 36 percent, launched its first Behavioral Health Bureau, earned reaccreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board and partnered with local organizations to help address pharmacy deserts.
St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer released this statement to FOX 2 on Davis’ resignation.
“Dr. Mati has done an exemplary job and is well respected by her employees and citizens. I thank her for her service.”