Shawnee County’s health officer thrust into spotlight after years of relative anonymity

In 1994, Gianfranco Pezzino had a decision to make. As one of his mentors put it, he would have to choose between being a “big fish in a small pond” or a small fish in a bigger — but possibly nicer — pond.Pezzino chose Topeka. Today, Shawnee County’s health officer calls it “the best decision ever” and takes exception to those who once questioned his move or even said they felt sorry for him.