County Commission
5th District Commissioner - Erica Anderson
Professional Journey
Erica has spearheaded several impactful health-focused initiatives, including Mobile Integrated Health, Community Health Workers, and various maternal, nutritional, and social health pilot programs across the nation. She has also contributed her expertise by serving on multiple boards, such as the CDC Arthritis Expert Advisory Panel, Kansas Public Health Association (KPHA), and Healthcare Institute for Innovations in Quality. In recognition of her contributions to advancing patient-centered care, she was honored with the inaugural Region VII Health Equity (RHEC) Champion Award.
Her professional journey includes roles with the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department, Humana, Tobacco Free Kansas, Kaiser Permanente, and numerous hospitality establishments, including Hereford House, the Pool Room, Jazz House, and Paradise Café. Erica currently consults and supports states with the implementation of Medicaid requirements.
A passionate advocate for public service from a young age, Erica's dedication was shaped by her early experiences in Douglas County, where she was a Junior Volunteer at Lawrence Memorial Hospital, delivered papers for the Lawrence Journal-World, volunteered with the Suicide Crisis hotline at Headquarters, was active in Junior Achievement, and a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and Harvesters.
Personal Life
Erica has been a resident of Douglas County for over 40 years, where she and her husband, Dustin Rothwell, a small business owner, raised two children in Baldwin City. She holds a B.S. in Business Administration, an M.S. in Public Affairs, and a Ph.D. in Public Health. Throughout her career, Erica has balanced family life, full-time professional responsibilities, and a strong commitment to advocating for policy change, all while advocating for positive societal transformation.
In her personal time, Erica enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors, and taking full advantage of the abundant green spaces and trails that Douglas County offers.
Contact Erica
Phone: (785) 393-3683
Email: eanderson@dgcoks.gov
Map for Commission District
Instructions for interactive map: Select the "County Commission" tab on the Voter Information map provided by Douglas County GIS.