Arnold X. C. Perkins served as Director of the Alameda County Public Health Department in the California Bay Area (serving a population of 1.4 million people), from 1994 through 2006, providing leadership and management of the administrative, program and policy activities of the department, which has a budget of $105 million and over 500 employees. During his tenure, Mr. Perkins led the Department through a major organizational shift that reflects a broad vision of Public Health with a community development orientation. He believes that public health is a social change organization that must be integrated into the community and responsive to its needs. His diverse background includes positions as a high school teacher and principal; non-profit organization executive director; family counselor and advocate; foundation program officer; college teacher and administrator; and restaurant owner and operator. Mr. Perkins is an experienced speaker, planner, and facilitator, especially in the areas of youth development, organizational change, team building, creative leadership, executive coaching, community development, and group dynamics. Over the years he has worked with incarcerated youth and adults.