In big news for St. Pete’s health and wellness, a celebrated local leader is taking on a new role in the community. The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg (FHSP) announced today the appointment of Dr. Kanika Tomalin as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.

Tomalin, who previously served eight years as St. Pete’s Deputy Mayor, is a well-respected local leader with experience in both public and private sectors, having played a key role in the creation of the conversion foundation during her time as Vice President of Strategic Planning & Public Affairs at Bayfront Health System.

FHSP is a non-profit organization that has awarded millions of dollars to local organizations over the last decade, with a focus on addressing health disparities, advancing population health, and achieving health equity through the advancement of racial equity. The organization has also formed strategic partnerships with other community organizations that share its goals.

Tomalin’s appointment follows a nationwide search that included extensive community outreach, with more than 175 people sharing their ideas and priorities for the ideal qualifications and background of a new leader. She will begin her new role in mid-June.

“I am deeply committed to the mission, purpose and possibilities for the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg and I am excited to lead this talented team,” Tomalin said. “It is a continuation of my life’s work to create a healthier, more equitable community.”

Tomalin currently serves as Eckerd College’s Chief Operating Officer and Vice President for Strategy, and her background includes a wealth of experience in public service. During her time as Deputy Mayor and City Administrator, she founded the Innovation District, created the Healthy St. Pete initiative, helped reduce African American poverty to a record low, and guided St. Petersburg through its pandemic response.

Tomalin’s appointment is a significant milestone for FHSP, and her extensive experience in public service and community engagement makes her an ideal candidate for the position. As she takes the helm, she will have the opportunity to build on the FHSP’s existing achievements and further advance its mission of promoting health equity in the communities it serves.

“We are thrilled that Dr. Tomalin will lend her tremendous experience and expertise to lead this organization into its next chapter,” said Dr. Donna Petersen, Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. “Our community faces tremendous challenges but is also poised to seize opportunities. Dr. Tomalin’s deep commitment, long-standing relationships and record of trajectory-shifting outcomes made her our clear choice. Her leadership will reinforce our commitment to achieve racial and health equity.”