Michael E. Kilkenny, M. D., M. S.
CEO & Health Officer, Cabell-Huntington Health Department
Written by Michelle Lantz-Barb
Michael E. Kilkenny, M. D., M. S., CEO and health officer of the Cabell-Huntington Health Department, moved to West Virginia from Whitehall, Ohio, to attend Marshall University. While at Marshall, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in education, Doctorate of Medicine and Master of Science in community health. The rich tapestry of Appalachian culture, dialects, cuisine, outlooks and genuine camaraderie among West Virginia people captivated him.
“ I don’ t just like being here,” he says.“ I belong here, and when I’ m not here, I want to get back.”
Completing his residency at Marshall, Kilkenny became board-certified in family medicine, gaining invaluable experience in both rural and urban settings. He worked in private practice and served as medical director of an extensive, federally qualified health center system before his current role.
“ I’ m in my dream job in a great community with a fantastic staff,” he says.“ On the national level, as immediate past president of the National Association of County and City Health Officials, I’ m kept aware of changing policies at all levels. I have provided input for projects ranging from helping improve the treatment of hepatitis locally to what will make local health departments thrive in the future.”
Kilkenny’ s dedication has been recognized with numerous accolades, including favorite teacher and outstanding resident honors. He also had an influential presidency for the County Medical Society. Most recently, he was honored with the prestigious Hall of Fame Award from the West Virginia Public Health Association in recognition of his commitment to rural primary care and numerous outstanding contributions.
Photo by Jeffrey McClelland.
Influential mentors in Kilkenny’ s life include Bob Walker, Jack Woodrum, Dr. Kevin Yingling and Dr. William Neal, former CEO and health officer of the Cabell-Huntington Health Department, where Kilkenny now works.
“ I wanted to be like him but never thought I’ d run his health department,” he says“ Well, here I am.”
Reflecting on his personal growth, he admits to being a lifelong learner, though he humorously acknowledges his wife’ s view of his persistence as bordering on stubbornness.
80 WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE