Mat-Su Health Foundation Announces Esther Pitts as President and Chief Executive Officer

Following a rigorous nationwide recruitment effort, Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) has selected Esther Pitts to serve as its next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Having lived in Alaska since 1991 and in Wasilla since 2015, she has a deep personal connection to the community and a strong commitment to improving the health and well-being of its residents.

She will succeed retiring CEO Elizabeth Ripley and formally step into the role on May 1, 2025.

Become a Mat-Su Health Foundation Member

Do you care about the health of the Mat-Su? We do too! Become a member of the Mat-Su Health Foundation to help make our borough the healthiest in Alaska.

Apply for vocational scholarships!

Get help paying for vocational training and certificate programs in health and human services career fields.

President & CEO Elizabeth Ripley to Retire

Elizabeth Ripley, President and CEO of the Mat-Su Health Foundation, will retire in 2025 after 16 years of service. Under her leadership, annual grants grew from $3 million to over $20 million. Her achievements include helping to establish the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, enhancing behavioral health services, advocating for public health policies, and launching Connect Mat-Su and R.O.C.K. Mat-Su to improve community resources. She will continue to serve on the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center’s board.

The foundation’s board will ensure a smooth transition and maintain ongoing programs. The Foraker Group is assisting in the search for a successor.

Learn about academic scholarships!

Get funding for undergraduate and post-graduate degrees in the healthcare and human services areas of study.