Wasilla, Alaska—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). Pitts is a long-time Alaskan, Mat-Su resident, and currently serves as the Chief Community Impact Officer (CCIO) at MSHF. She will succeed retiring CEO Elizabeth Ripley and formally step into the role on May 1, 2025.

Ripley announced last year that she would retire to spend more time with family, travel, and explore other community opportunities. In anticipation, MSHF Board of Directors (Board) engaged with The Foraker Group to lead a thoughtful and thorough selection process. The search spanned the nation, garnering interest from over 75 applicants. Through a series of complex and intensive interviews, the Board narrowed the field, and Pitts emerged as a unanimous choice.

“Throughout the interview process, Esther consistently demonstrated the community-centered values that are at the heart of our organization,” said MSHF Board Chair Lisa Wade. “We had the privilege of reviewing many highly qualified candidates from across the nation, but at every key moment, Esther stood out—not only for her impressive healthcare experience but also for her authenticity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to advancing the MSHF mission. She truly embodies our organization’s values, and we are excited to see her lead and thrive as our next President and CEO.”

Pitts is an accomplished healthcare executive with over 20 years of leadership experience in healthcare, nonprofit governance, government contracting, and small business management. 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. With a proven background in building strategic partnerships, leading cross-functional teams, and managing complex community projects, Pitts has played a key role in driving positive health outcomes in the state.

“Our team at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center (MSRMC) is excited to welcome Esther as she steps into her new role as President and CEO,” said MSRMC Interim CEO James Bunch. “Her extensive background in healthcare and unwavering dedication to Alaska and its communities make her the perfect choice for this role. We are confident in her vision and look forward to working together to make Mat-Su the healthiest borough in the state.”

Pitts holds a master’s in business administration with a focus on healthcare leadership and a bachelor’s in business administration, both from Capella University. She is a Certified Professional Healthcare Risk Manager (CPHRM) and holds certifications in human resource management. She also supports her community through board service with Alaska Psychiatric Institute (API), All Alaska Pediatric Partnership (A2P2), Best Beginnings, and Mat-Su College Advisory Council.

“I am deeply honored to accept this role and lead an organization that continues to make a lasting impact in the Mat-Su,” said Pitts. “This community is my home, and it is a dream realized to lead an organization so vital to the health and well-being of our residents. I am humbled by the opportunity to collaborate with our community and partners, working together to build a healthier, brighter future for all who call the Mat-Su home.”