As a health promotion coordinator, Buell worked with community organizations to help make positive contributions to the community&squo;s preventive health programs and activities. Prior to her work in public health, she served as a wellness coordinator at Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva.

Buell has worked on numerous community boards and organizations, including public schools and the university. She has worked on tobacco prevention efforts in the schools and preventive health efforts in the community.

Buell says she has a personal passion for physical activity and worked tirelessly on greenway projects in Jackson County.

Also included in her expertise is being a certified fitness instructor.

&dquo;I am very excited and eager to work with the citizens of Polk County,&dquo; said Buell. &dquo;Everything I have heard about the area is positive. It is going to be rewarding to work here.&dquo;

Buell has an interest in promoting bicycle trails and is an avid cyclist. Other interests include jewelry design, art, and cooking.