Miami Dade County Honors Dr. Kenneth Hutchins on His Retirement Day

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held a heartfelt meeting on September 3, 2025, to honor Dr. Kenneth D. Hutchins, who is retiring after 24 years of dedicated service as the head of the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner Department. The meeting was marked by a proclamation declaring the day as "Dr. Kenneth D. Hutchins Day," celebrating his significant contributions to the community and the medical examiner's office.

Commissioners expressed deep appreciation for Dr. Hutchins' leadership, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Surfside building collapse. His colleagues highlighted his commitment to excellence, noting that he trained over 100 forensic pathology fellows, many of whom have gone on to lead medical examiner offices across the country. The commissioners acknowledged that his departure would leave a substantial gap in the department, emphasizing that his multifaceted role would be difficult to fill.

Dr. Hutchins reflected on his time with the county, sharing that the years spent in service were among the best of his life. He expressed gratitude for the support from his colleagues and the community, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in their work. As he prepares for retirement, he looks forward to spending more time with family while cherishing the memories and friendships formed during his tenure.

The meeting underscored the impact of dedicated public service on community safety and well-being, as well as the importance of recognizing the contributions of individuals who have devoted their careers to serving the public. The commissioners reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the medical examiner's office continues to operate at a high standard, honoring Dr. Hutchins' legacy as they move forward.