ALBANY, N.Y. (1010 WINS) — Dr. Mary T. Bassett, commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, announced her resignation on Friday after one year of leading the state's response to COVID-19 and other health issues.
Bassett announced her resignation for Jan. 1, a decision she described as "very difficult" and coincides with her planned return to the Harvard Chan School of Public Health.
"I have tremendous admiration for the work our staff has done during a very difficult year responding to COVID, mpox, polio and the day-to-day challenges of protecting New Yorkers' health," she said in a statement. "I am leaving now so the next commissioner can have the chance to lead this great department for a full 4-year term under the leadership of Gov. Hochul."
Bassett, a former New York City Health Commissioner under Mayor Bill de Blasio, went on to thank Hochul for "giving [her] the opportunity to serve as commissioner."
"I know that the department and public health will be in good hands thanks to her leadership and the incredible talent and dedication of the staff," Bassett continued. "Though I am moving back to Massachusetts, I will always be a New Yorker, and I look forward to cheering on the department’s accomplishments in the coming years."
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