State Senator John Jasinski (R-Faribault) today congratulated Rice County Public Health Director Deb Purfeerst on receiving the 2024 Betty Hubbard Maternal and Child Health Leadership Award for her outstanding contributions to family health across Minnesota. This honor, given by the Minnesota Department of Health, celebrates Purfeerst’s outstanding contributions to the health and wellness of mothers and children across the state. 

“Deb Purfeerst represents the very best of public service in our community,” Senator Jasinski said. “For forty years, she has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of mothers and children throughout Rice County and beyond. This award recognizes her remarkable dedication to our families.”   

Throughout her career, Purfeerst has provided essential services in maternal and child health, so families in Rice County and beyond have access to crucial care and resources. Her leadership has strengthened programs like family home visiting, child and teen checkups, car seat safety, and other important services that benefit young families. She’s also been instrumental in adding community health workers and counselors to better support mothers and children. 

“We’re fortunate to have someone of Deb’s caliber serving our community,” Sen. Jasinski added. “Her work has touched countless lives and helped make southern Minnesota a great place for families to grow and thrive.” 

 The Betty Hubbard Award, presented annually since 1990, recognizes individuals and organizations making significant contributions to maternal and child health in Minnesota. Purfeerst received this year’s statewide honor at an October 25 ceremony in St. Paul.