October 8, 2024
Dear Friends, Colleagues, and Community Members,
Since my late teens, my dream had been to move to Portland and begin a career as a clinical psychologist. In 1976, I realized that dream and have since served in many wonderful positions across Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Texas. It has been a privilege to be at the forefront of a rapidly changing field. But mostly, it has been an honor to work alongside similarly passionate individuals whose compassion and hope for those we serve is constant and true.
Though it is a difficult and personal decision, I have decided it is time to step back and embrace the next juncture in my life. I am formally announcing my retirement from Cascadia Health this spring, 2025. Over the next several months, I will continue to act as CEO, and I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition.
I’ve had the pleasure (and great fortune) to serve as President and CEO for Cascadia Health since 2008. It has been our conviction in the services we provide, as well as our vision for what this organization could become, that led us through these and many other chapters (at times equally joyful and harrowing, challenging but worthwhile), and I will never forget or minimize what we’ve accomplished together. (In fact, I am proud to share an early look at our 2023 – 2024 Annual Report.)
As we inch closer to the spring, I am confident in Cascadia’s leadership team, as well as our Board of Directors, who will confidently steer us forward. The Board has developed a transition plan, established a transition committee, and will work with leadership, staff, and an external recruitment firm to conduct a national search for Cascadia’s next CEO.
Although spring is still a few months out (and I will miss you all and this work immensely), I am looking forward to the time I will have with Chuck, my partner of 46 years. I will also be cheering you all on, as I know Cascadia has a bright future.
With heartfelt appreciation,