Pagosa Springs News Summaries Sunday, September 5, 2010 Local News - Opinions & Editorials - Business & Real Estate - Friends & Neignbors - Arts & Entertainment - Sports & Recreation - Humor, Fiction, Poetry - Health & Environment - Religion & Philosophy  New Director at San Juan Basin Health Jane Looney | 7/28/10 Back to the News Summaries San Juan Basin Health Department has announced the hiring of Leon Vinci as its new Executive Director.   “Leon Vinci brings a deep and well-rounded background in public health,” said Bob Ledger, Chair of the San Juan Basin Board of Health. “While the process has been lengthy, the Board is pleased with the results. Mr. Vinci’s mix of experiences will serve our health department and community well.”    Mr. Vinci holds a Doctorate in Health Administration from the Medical School of South Carolina and a Masters in Public Health from Yale University. He has served as Director of public health departments in Connecticut, Kansas and Nebraska. Most recently, Vinci has been a consultant in public health areas such as disease prevention, tobacco, grants administration, and health promotion.  He possesses a variety of experience at the local, state, and federal levels. Additionally, Mr. Vinci has held part-time/adjunct teaching positions at several universities.   Vinci will begin as Executive Director for San Juan Basin Health on August 2. He will be working with interim director Julie Thompson during August. The board and staff greatly appreciate Ms. Thompson’s leadership during this transition period. Visit the Pagosa Daily Post