Kristine Hollingsworth

Public Information Officer and Assistant to the Administrator

Florida Department of Health, Collier County

Read Kristine’s bio. See all 40 Under 40 honorees.

Five Questions for Kristine

Kristine prepares for an on-camera interview.

1. Who or what inspired you to enter the field of public health?

From a young age, was taught to treat people right, because you never know when you will be the one in need. Therefore, I am more than a public health professional — it is my duty to take care of those in need. Having the role of public information officer in the field of public health has given me a platform to raise awareness and educate my community.

2. What would success in public health look like to you?

Success in public health would be a world where one’s health status is not a reflection of his or her socioeconomic status, race, gender, or zip code. Good health is a human right.

3. What’s a story or experience that keeps you going, even when you’re feeling challenged?

When I feel challenged, I think of the time when a young woman and her mother came into my office asking for help. The young woman was a victim of human trafficking and was trafficked from Florida and then across the country. She found the strength and courage to leave her traffickers and returned home. In her I saw pain, suffering, but I also saw hope. She drives me each and every day to do the work that I do and ensure that our community is safe. Trafficking is a crime and it is modern day slavery. My chance encounter with that young woman has given me the determination to help stop trafficking. It was that day I truly found my passion for public health.

4. As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A doctor.

5. What are the greatest challenges you face in your public health work or area of focus?

Compassionate, driven, aware

Recent Posts

View More