Dr. Penny Borenstein, a public health leader in San Luis Obispo, was awarded the first Community Excellence Award during the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner on Saturday, March 12, 2022, in front of nearly 500 attendees for her demonstrated excellence in communication, consistency, leadership, and empathy in her arduous and often thankless role as a public health official throughout this pandemic.
In January 2020, few people understood what “pandemic” meant. To help us navigate the unknown, Dr. Borenstein did what excellent public health officials do: She told our community what she knew, she bravely charted the best course and had the courage to change it as we learned more.
“The Community Excellence Award was created to honor someone who has demonstrated the highest caliber of commitment to our local community.” said LeBren Harris, SLO Chamber 2022 Board Chair. “The SLO Chamber was thrilled to recognize our County Public Health Officer, Dr. Penny Borenstein, who stepped up during an incredibly difficult time to keep our community informed, connected and safe.”
Dr. Borenstein has been a leader that doctors, nurses and countless other on the ground healthcare professionals have looked to as a source of support and information throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Challenged continuously in emotionally charged circumstances, she has remained steadfast, always focused on achieving the best possible health outcomes. She values individual citizens and believes every question, even an angry one, deserves a thoughtful, timely response.
“Dr. Borenstein has demonstrated excellence in leadership, communication, and service throughout the pandemic,” said Dr. Jill Stearns, Cuesta College President. “She bears incredible responsibility for public health with a calm grace that shields the public from the harsh reality of the pressure levied upon her as Public Health Officer in this extended pandemic.“
Her considerable expertise, unwavering defense of science and fierce devotion to our community’s good health epitomize the role of competent public servant and selfless leader. Dr. Borenstein’s consistent willingness to get in front of a camera, give community updates to keep the public informed and safe, and provide confidence in community partners clearly demonstrates her firm commitment to community.
“I am full of gratitude for this recognition,” said Dr. Borenstein upon receiving the award. “I couldn’t have shown up for our community without the help from my team at Public Health, so I would like to dedicate this to them, and to all healthcare workers who have risked their lives to care for our community through the pandemic.”
Please join us in thanking Dr. Borenstein for all her hard work and congratulating her for receiving this award.