Wasilla, Alaska — Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) has hired Esther Pitts in the role of Chief Community Impact Officer. Pitts was selected from a diverse field of candidates following a comprehensive nationwide search process conducted by The Foraker Group. Her ability to provide strategic guidance, collaborative team development, and data-driven, growth-oriented systems change made her the top candidate in a competitive field of applicants. She assumed her new position on Nov. 29, 2023. Another member of the Foundation’s executive leadership team, Robin Minard, is retiring in January 2024 after having served as the Foundation’s Chief Communications Officer for more than 11 years.

Pitts leads the Foundation’s programmatic and philanthropic work and supports the teams responsible for grantmaking, scholarships, data collection and analysis, and programs including Connect Mat-Su and R.O.C.K. Mat-Su (Raising Our Children with Kindness). She also co-leads the Foundation’s health equity initiatives in conjunction with the chief operations officer.

“I’m thrilled that we were able to fill this crucial role with a talented leader who is also a proud Mat-Su resident,” said MSHF President and CEO Elizabeth Ripley. “Esther’s talent, experience, and passion for creating a healthier community will help take the Foundation to a new level of impact.”

“Being in the position to make a positive impact in the community where my family lives is a dream come true,” said Pitts. “I look forward to leading a dynamic team of professionals, all of whom are committed to achieving the mission of improving the health and wellness of Alaskans living in the Mat-Su.

Pitts brings 11 years of nonprofit hospital leadership experience to the Foundation. Her background includes risk management, patient safety, human resources, program development, and direct service operation. Prior to accepting her new role Pitts served as the Executive Director of Providence Alaska Children’s Hospital and Women’s Services Administration. She earned a master’s degree in business administration with a minor in healthcare leadership and a bachelor’s degree in business administration, both from Capella University.

The search process for a new Chief Communications Officer will begin in the new year. “We have been fortunate to have someone of Robin’s expertise leading our communications, marketing and public policy work for more than a decade,” said Ripley. “Her leadership, energy and positive outlook have helped drive the Foundation’s mission forward.”

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About Mat-Su Health Foundation: Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) is the official business name of Valley Hospital Association, Inc., which shares ownership in Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. In this capacity, MSHF board members and representatives actively participate in the governance of Mat-Su’s community hospital to protect the community’s interest in this important healthcare institution. The MSHF mission is to improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in the Mat-Su and the tools it uses include grantmaking, convening of local partners, and policy change. The foundation’s work has resulted in significant improvements in systems that support the health of Mat-Su residents in areas such as behavioral health, child welfare, crisis response, community connections, workforce development, transportation, housing, and senior services. More information is available at healthymatsu.org.