Shelby County Appoints Bruce Randolph Interim Health Director Pending State Approval

Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris has appointed Dr. Bruce Randolph as the Interim Director of the Shelby County Health Department and Health Officer, pending approval from the Tennessee Commissioner of Health. Dr. Randolph, a Tuskegee University alumnus with nearly 40 years of medical experience and training from Johns Hopkins University and the University of Oklahoma, is coming out of retirement to fill the role. He previously served as Shelby County Health Officer and led successful COVID-19 vaccination efforts, notably vaccinating inmates at the Division of Corrections at rates exceeding national averages. Mayor Harris emphasized the importance of steady leadership during his remaining term and aims to allow the next county mayor to select a permanent health director. Dr. Randolph expressed pride in his appointment and commitment to continuing the essential public health work without interruption. This interim role follows the departure of Dr. Michelle Taylor, who will become the Commissioner of Health for Baltimore City.