Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis, who led St. Louis through much of the pandemic with valor and helped save countless lives with her dedication to the community, has resigned as city director of health.
Calling it a “difficult decision,” which came after much reflection, Davis will serve during a transition period “to support the department’s continued progress and ensure a smooth handoff.”
Recognized as one of the leading urban health directors in the nation, Davis is leaving the post where she was a champion in support of the mental and physical well-being of city residents – despite state and national obstructionism. She leaves behind an impressive list of achievements.
“Together, we faced historic public health challenges and accomplished extraordinary milestones,” she said in a release.
The St. Louis American requested a comment from Mayor Cara Spencer and inquired if she sought Davis’ resignation, as another African American who served in former Mayor Tishaura Jones’ administration has been replaced or chose to leave their respective office.
The St. Louis Business Journal has reported that Spencer will fire Neal Richardson as head of the St. Louis Development Corp. and replace him with Otis Williams as interim CEO.
Davis told The American that the timing of her departure is “coincidental” and that she decided upon her own to resign. The mayor’s office also confirmed that it had not sought Davis’ resignation.
“Yesterday, I accepted Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis’ resignation as director of health. Dr. Mati has done an exemplary job and is well respected by her employees and citizens. I thank her for her service,” Spencer said in a statement.
Davis said, “Together, we faced historic public health challenges and accomplished extraordinary milestones.”
Recognized as one of the leading urban health directors in the nation, Davis is leaving the post where she was a champion in support of the mental and physical well-being of city residents – despite state and national obstructionism. She leaves behind an impressive list of achievements.
The department’s staff was increased by 36%, and according to Davis, “removed the city from all high-risk designation audits, and built critical infrastructure, including the city’s first ever Behavioral Health Bureau.”
She did the following:
-Advocated for more than 60 local and state health bills and earned reaccreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board, five years in the making.
-Established the city’s first Community Outreach and Communications Bureau, which engaged more than 13,000 residents at community events in 2024.
-Partnered to address pharmacy deserts, and helped reduce deaths at the City Justice Center to a low of 2 in 2024.
“It has been a joy to lead this department and to serve alongside such brilliant and committed public health professionals,” Davis said.
“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.”