The resolution honors Mary Selecky for her lifelong dedication to public health and service in Washington State. Born in Pennsylvania, she moved to Washington in the early 1970s and began her public health career in 1979 as the Administrator for the Northeast Tri-County Health District. Her exceptional leadership led to her appointment as Secretary of Health by Governor Gary Locke in 1998, a role she held for 15 years under three governors. During her tenure, she made significant contributions to public health policy, focusing on tobacco prevention, patient safety, and emergency preparedness, resulting in notable reductions in smoking rates and improved vaccination efforts.

Mary Selecky's impact extended beyond her official roles, as she advocated for rural communities and played a crucial role in responding to public health crises. She was the first non-physician health officer to serve as President of the Washington State Association of Local Public Health Officials and continued her commitment to public health through various board memberships after retirement. Her exemplary service has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the American Medical Association's Nathan Davis Award and the Indiana University Bicentennial Medal. The resolution commends her lifetime of service and leadership in promoting the health and well-being of Washington's communities.