Administration
DISTRICT
ADMINISTRATOR
Janae Parent is the current head of the Benton-Franklin Health District, where she has served for over 11 years. A fourth-generation local, Janae is deeply invested in the health and wellbeing of her community, both professionally and personally, as she raises the next generation here.
With a strong foundation in business and banking, and now over a decade of experience in public health, Janae brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and people-centered leadership. Since stepping into her leadership role, she has made it a priority to transform the workplace into one where people feel heard, and empowered, replacing fear with connection and confidence. This passion has defined much of her leadership journey.
Janae enjoys the dynamic intersection of public health and government and is driven by the challenge and purpose it brings. She is currently completing her degree in Human Resources, building on prior academic work in business and finance.
Under her leadership, Janae envisions the Health District as a place rooted in science, health, environment, and most importantly, community. She is committed to fostering partnerships, driving innovation, and ensuring the Health District continues to serve as a trusted pillar in the region.
Office of the Health Officer
INTERIM HEALTH OFFICER
Coming soon...
DEPUTY TO THE HEALTH OFFICER
Heather Hill, BSN, RN has decades of experience in Public Health. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing form Walla Walla University. She has work as a Public Health Nurse for Benton-Franklin Health District since 1983. The majority of her career has been overseeing all aspects of communicable disease and clinic services for the bi-county health district. She currently is the Deputy to the Health Officer and will be working closely with the Health Officer, Dr. Giske, to provide public health leadership to staff and the community.
Senior Leadership
SENIOR MANAGER OF COMMUNITY HEALTH
Carla Prock, RN, BSN a dedicated advocate for community health in Kennewick, WA, brings over 23 years of experience as a Senior Manager of Community Health at the Benton-Franklin Health District. Her journey started as a Public Health Nurse, progressing through various leadership roles. Carla's achievements include supporting PHAB Accreditation for the district and active participation in state-level initiatives focusing on maternal, child, and family health, among others. Her contributions earned her accolades, such as the Excellence in Public Health Award. With a commitment to health equity and strong leadership, Carla remains a respected figure driving positive change in her cherished community.
Read Full Bio: Sr. Manager of Healthy Communities
SENIOR MANAGER OF SURVEILLANCE & INVESTIGATION
Erin Hockaday, CPSI, has dedicated 17+ years at the Benton-Franklin Health District, significantly impacting Tri-Cities' public health. With a strong background in Biology from Whitworth University, she's deeply rooted in the region for over 35 years. At BFHD, Erin excelled in Environmental Health Food Safety, later pioneering the School Environmental Health & Safety Program. Now, as Senior Manager for Surveillance & Investigation, she oversees critical public health initiatives, emphasizing her commitment to a healthier Tri-Cities community. Read Full Bio: Sr. Manager of Surveillance & Investigation
SENIOR MANAGER OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Brandy McNeill, an accomplished HR professional, brings extensive expertise in personnel, recruitment, labor relations, and leadership. She joined the BFHD team in 2023 with a goal to support our diverse staff who are serving our community. With roles at Trios Health, Lourdes Health, and National Frozen Foods Corporation, Brandy demonstrated proficiency in counseling, termination interviews, employee training, compensation, and benefits administration. She excels in employee and labor relations, leading large-scale projects for improved employee and customer experiences. Brandy's strategic approach, compliance knowledge, and commitment to fostering positive work environments have been instrumental in her roles, driving impactful change in HR practices and policies.