HUNTINGTON, WV — Cabell-Huntington Health Department CEO and Health Officer Dr. Michael Kilkenny has been honored as a 2026 West Virginia Executive Health Care Hall of Fame inductee. The recognition was presented Tuesday, March 3, during a ceremony at the University of Charleston.
The West Virginia Executive Health Care Hall of Fame recognizes leaders who have made significant and lasting contributions to the health and well-being of their communities. Dr. Kilkenny’s induction reflects decades of service dedicated to strengthening public health systems, advancing community health initiatives, and improving access to quality care across the region.
Dr. Kilkenny has served as CEO and Health Officer for Cabell-Huntington Health Department since 2015. A proud graduate of Marshall University, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education, a Doctor of Medicine, and a Master of Science in Community Health. After completing his residency at Marshall, he became board-certified in family medicine. In addition to years in private practice, he served as Medical Director of Valley Health Systems before bringing his experience and leadership to the health department.
His impact extends beyond West Virginia. In 2018, Dr. Kilkenny was elected to the Board of Directors of the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), the nation’s leading organization representing local health departments. In July 2024, he was named president of the NACCHO Board for the 2024–25 term and became immediate past president on July 1, 2025 — further elevating the voice of local public health on the national stage.
“Dr. Kilkenny’s leadership has strengthened public health not only in Cabell County but across West Virginia and the United States,” said Elizabeth Adkins, Administrator for Cabell-Huntington Health Department. “This honor reflects his unwavering commitment to protecting and improving the health of the communities he serves.”
Dr. Kilkenny joined nine other distinguished leaders as part of the Class of 2026, including Dr. Larry Dial, Dr. Clay Marsh, Dr. Greg Rosencrance, Dr. Sammar Atassi, Angie Christian, Christopher Clay, Michelle Coon, Dr. Katherine Calloway, and Dr. William McBee, Jr.
The Cabell-Huntington Health Department congratulates Dr. Kilkenny on his outstanding contributions at the local, state, and national levels and on this well-deserved induction into the West Virginia Executive Health Care Hall of Fame
