Burke County Health Department Director Danny Scalise recently received the North Carolina Attorney General鈥檚 Dogwood Award for 2024.
The annual award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving the lives and well-being of North Carolinians. Each year, the Dogwood Award is given to individuals across the state who have made significant contributions to the communities.
Attorney General Josh Stein, the North Carolina governor-elect, presented the award during a ceremony held on Dec. 12 in Buncombe County, where Scalise was lauded for his commitment and contributions to public health.
Scalise has a strong background in both public health and policy, and brings extensive experience and expertise to his role, leading initiatives that address critical health challenges and improve community well-being. He is an adjunct professor at Campbell University鈥檚 School of Osteopathic Medicine and teaches health policy at West Virginia University School of Public Health. His academic roles reflect his commitment to educating and mentoring the next generation of public health professionals.
Throughout his career, Scalise has been actively involved in public policy and governance, advising two governors and serving as the recovery czar in West Virginia, where he managed significant grants and funds. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from West Virginia University Institute of Technology, a Master of Business Administration from The John Chambers College of Business & Economics at West Virginia University, and a Master of Public Health degree in health policy from West Virginia University鈥檚 School of Public Health. He is certified in public health by the National Board of Public Health Examiners and is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
鈥淒anny has been leading Burke County鈥檚 work to treat substance use disorder and opioid addiction as the public health crisis that it is,鈥� Stein said. 鈥淗is leadership is helping people get and stay healthy.鈥�
The Dogwood Award reflects the Attorney General鈥檚 commitment to highlighting the efforts of those who go above and beyond to make North Carolina a better place to live. Scalise joins an esteemed group of past recipients who have worked tirelessly in areas ranging from public safety to education and community development.