Annette Lerma has dedicated more than 24 years to the Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District, where she serves as Director of Public Health. She began her career as a WIC nutritionist and advanced through leadership roles as WIC Director, Health Programs Manager, and Assistant Director before being appointed Director. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to strengthening public health programs, building collaborative partnerships, and improving the health of the communities she serves.
Annette earned a Bachelor of Science from Abilene Christian University and a Master of Public Health from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC). In 2026, she was honored as TTUHSC School of Population & Public Health Alumna of the Year and was inducted into the Delta Omega Honor Society in recognition of her leadership and contributions to public health.
As WIC Director, Annette was selected as one of eight WIC directors statewide to serve on the Texas Association of Local WIC Directors Task Force, helping design the Texas WIC Information Network (TXIN), the foundation of the state's current Mosaic system. As a member of the City of Abilene's executive leadership team, she has led cross-departmental workgroups focused on employee appreciation, wellness, benefits, policy revisions, and engagement.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Annette led the establishment of a regional vaccination hub in Abilene, bringing together healthcare systems, educational institutions, volunteers, and community partners to provide efficient access to thousands of residents. Her leadership earned her the Mayor's Odis Dolton Good Neighbor Award for outstanding service to the community.
Annette is committed to advancing local public health through collaboration, innovation, and servant leadership. Her passion is strengthening the public health workforce, building resilient communities, and ensuring local health departments have the tools and partnerships needed to meet the evolving challenges of public health.