The resolution honors Mary Selecky for her extensive contributions to public health in Washington State. Growing up in Pennsylvania and later moving to Colville, Washington, she dedicated her career to improving healthcare in rural communities. Selecky began her public health journey with the Northeast Tri-County Health District, where she became an administrator and advocated for various health programs. Her efforts were pivotal in the establishment of the Washington State Department of Health, where she served as Secretary of Health for nearly 15 years under multiple governors, leading the state through significant public health challenges, including the H1N1 pandemic and the Fukushima disaster.

Throughout her career, Selecky was recognized for her fierce advocacy for public health, championing initiatives that significantly improved smoking cessation rates and childhood immunization rates in Washington. Beyond her governmental roles, she contributed to various health organizations and continued to serve her community after retirement. The resolution acknowledges her legacy of mentorship, leadership, and dedication to addressing public health issues, particularly for marginalized communities, and expresses gratitude for her lasting impact on the health of Washington State.