By Jerry Filmore
WORCESTER — City Manager Eric D. Batista announced on Friday, February 13, that Seema Dixit has been appointed as the new Commissioner of Health and Human Services for the City of Worcester. The appointment is scheduled to take effect on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
Dixit joins the municipality with more than 25 years of experience in public health leadership. She most recently served as the Deputy Director for the Rhode Island Department of Health, an agency she first joined in 2003. During her tenure in Rhode Island, she also served as the Director of Environmental Health and led the department’s community mitigation and enforcement efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Worcester, the Department of Health and Human Services encompasses several divisions that provide critical support to residents. The Commissioner oversees public health initiatives, elder affairs, veterans services, youth opportunities, and human rights outreach across the city.
Batista stated in a press release that Dixit brings significant experience in leading public health programs, managing large budgets, and advancing policy.
“I look forward to working together to advance the health and wellbeing of all Worcester residents,” Batista said.
In the same release, Dixit expressed her commitment to working closely with city staff and local organizations to serve the Worcester community.
“I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, community partners, and residents to strengthen public health, expand access to essential services, and build equitable health systems as deserved by the community,” Dixit said.
Dixit holds a Master of Science in International Health and Public Policy, as well as a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology and Health Administration from Tufts University. Prior to completing those degrees, she earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Human Nutrition from SNDT Women’s University in Mumbai, India.
🔍 The W.U.W. Verification Box
- Project / Topic: Appointment of Worcester Commissioner of Health and Human Services
- Current Status: Appointed
- Key Dates or Decisions: Appointment announced February 13, 2026; effective February 17, 2026
- Estimated Cost (if applicable): Not applicable
- Timeline (if known): Assumes office on February 17, 2026
- Immediate Next Steps: Dixit begins her role and transitions into municipal leadership
- Primary Sources: Official press release from the Office of Worcester City Manager Eric D. Batista
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