The Galion City Health Department has announced the addition of Matt Schwab as its new Director of Environmental Health. With a diverse career spanning funeral services and public health, Schwab brings a wealth of experience to his new role, aiming to enhance the health and well-being of Galion residents.
A Unique Path to Public Health
According to a social media post, Schwab, a Tiffin native, graduated from Tiffin Columbian High School before earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from Ashland University in 1994. His career trajectory took an unexpected turn when his father encouraged him to explore funeral directing. After working part-time at Turner-Engle Funeral Home, he discovered a passion for the profession and pursued an Associate’s degree in Applied Science from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, graduating in 1995.
For over two decades, Schwab served Ohio communities as a licensed funeral director, first in Shelby at Barkdull Funeral Home (1995-2003) and then at Secor Funeral Homes (2003-2018), which serves Willard, Plymouth, and New Washington. However, after 23 years in funeral services, he sought a career that would provide more time with his three daughters and their activities.
Transition to Environmental Health
In 2019, Schwab entered the field of public health by joining Huron County Public Health in Norwalk. His dedication led him to obtain his Registered Environmental Health Specialist license in 2021. He found working in local environmental health rewarding, appreciating the variety of challenges that come with addressing community health concerns.
Now, Schwab is stepping into his new role in Galion, where he will oversee environmental health initiatives, including sanitation, food safety, and community health regulations. He looks forward to working closely with both residents and local businesses to improve public health standards.
A Lifelong Entrepreneur
Beyond his professional journey, Schwab has an entrepreneurial spirit dating back to childhood. As an elementary school student, he and his younger brother turned rainy summer nights into a business opportunity, catching thousands of nightcrawlers and selling them to Lake Erie anglers passing through Tiffin.
With his diverse background and commitment to public health, Schwab is set to bring a dynamic approach to environmental health in Galion. The community looks forward to his contributions in ensuring a healthier future for residents and businesses alike.
