UPDATE | Amy Acton resigns as Ohio’s health department director

COLUMBUS — Dr. Amy Acton has resigned as director of the Ohio Department of Health and will serve in a new role as chief health advisor to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine.

"It's true not all heroes wear capes, some wear a white coat," said DeWine on Thursday of the Youngstown native who became a household name around Ohio and the nation during the coronavirus crisis for her ability to communicate the state's public health message. "This particular hero's white coat is embossed with the name Dr. Amy Acton."

Responding to reporters' questions during the governor's Tuesday coronavirus update, Acton gave few details about the reasons for her resignation, but noted her workload had tripled during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"It's something I've known wasn't a sustainable thing," she said, adding that as the pandemic management plan enter a phase of "learning to live with it" it's a good time for her to refocus.

Acton called the position "the honor of a lifetime" and gave a shoutout to her colleagues at ODH and the staff of local health departments. "I just want to see I'm so grateful to serve alongside of you."

Ohio Democratic Party Chairman Davin Pepper responded to Acton's resignation by noting Democrats have been grateful for Acton's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Dr. Acton rose above the petty partisan politics that so often dominates Columbus, and she did it with uncommon grace, humility and professionalism," Pepper said. "She became the epitome of a public servant and leader and a role model to so many."

Acton said the resignation was effective today.

Lance Himes will step back into his role as interim health director, DeWine said.

Watch Acton's announcement:

This story was originally published June 11, 2020 at 3:57 PM with the headline "UPDATE | Amy Acton resigns as Ohio’s health department director."