By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

The Livingston County Public Health Department’s Environmental Health Director has been recognized as the 2016 Sanitarian of the Year.

Donnie Simmons received the award from the Illinois Environmental Health Association at their annual conference at the end of October and Simmons was appreciative of the recognition.

“It means a great deal because it’s recognition by my peers from throughout the state of the things I’ve done for environmental health in my 28 years at the health department. I was very surprised because I had no inkling that I was getting the award and I have a great sense of pride and joy. I have to thank the people I work with. They’re great people and without them, I couldn’t do the job I do every day,” Simmons said.

Simmons received a traveling award plaque, which will stay in his office until the next award is given in the future.