The Champaign Region of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announces new Regional Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) Public Information Officer

WATSEKA, IL: The Iroquois County Public Health Department (ICPHD) is pleased to announce that Watseka resident and ICPHD Public Health Emergency Preparedness Director, Scott Anderson, has been selected as the Champaign Region PHEP Public Information Officer.

A Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for disseminating information to the public, primarily through media outlets, and managing communication for an organization or agency. They act as a liaison between the organization and the public, ensuring transparency and accurate information flow, especially during emergencies or crises.

Scott has a lengthy background in both emergency services as well as working within the media. “I started with the fire service in 1985, about the same time I began working on my days off from the fire department with the media as a photographer and occasionally as a writer,” said Anderson, “those years of working both roles provide me with a distinct advantage over most when it comes to the job of a PIO. I look forward to sharing my years of knowledge with those in my Region that may not feel as comfortable holding a PIO position.”

Robin Allen, Public Health Administrator for ICPHD, praised the selection. “We are thrilled that Scott has been chosen for this important position within our region. His excellent communication, professionalism, and extensive media background make him exceptionally well-suited to strengthen regional public health messaging and outreach.”

“I plan to provide all those that hold a PIO position within the Region with the tools necessary to complete different levels of training, depending on their individual and departmental needs,” Anderson commented, “I will assist everyone in learning how to write and disseminate a proper press release, interacting with the public through social media outlets, and feeling comfortable when holding a press conference. All these tasks can be daunting to anyone that has not been given proper direction. By following some simple advice, this guidance should build their confidence allowing them to become more self-assured in their PIO role.”

Mr. Anderson will immediately take over the Regional PIO position.

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Date: July 31st, 2025
FOR RELEASE THE WEEK OF:
Immediate Release
Contact: Tyler Robinson, PIO
(815) 432-2483
trobinson@co.iroquois.il.us