Author: Erin Messmer

  • Mat-Su Health Foundation Launches Powerful Health Stats Dashboard

    Mat-Su Health Foundation Launches Powerful Health Stats Dashboard

    Wasilla, Alaska – Today, the Mat-Su Health Foundation announced the launch of Mat-Su Measures, an online dashboard that consolidates regionally-specific, health-related data from over 50 sources. The dashboard allows users to access critical community data through an easy-to-use platform. Mat-Su Measures also features data visualizations, creating engaging graphs, charts, and maps that help with data interpretation. The goal is to provide one place where community members, nonprofit organizations, policymakers, and others can access the data they need to inform decisions that shape the health and wellness of Valley residents. The online dashboard is free for anyone to use.

    Data insights for community health and wellness

    “We’re a data-driven organization by nature,” said Esther Pitts, MSHF President and CEO. “When we have sound data, we are able to identify, prioritize, and address current and evolving community needs, from increasing social services and supports to building brick and mortar resources that promote health, economic stability, and community wellbeing.”

    The Foundation’s mission is to improve the health and wellness of all Alaskans living in the Mat-Su. A vital part of advancing this mission is collecting, analyzing, and strategizing based on local data that tells a story about the health of the Valley. That’s where MSHF’s Evaluation and Learning Department comes in.

    “We’ve been developing this initiative since 2023,” said Danielle Reed, MSHF’s Director of Evaluation and Learning. “Health is so much more than a medical status or simply avoiding illness. Where we live, the resources we can access, and our economic conditions all affect our personal health. Mat-Su Measures is the culmination of our work to increase data access so we can make informed choices about how we advance health for our communities.”

    Mat-Su Measures can be used for a variety of purposes, such as informing policy and advocacy, setting priorities, supplying information for grant applications, or learning where to allocate resources. Users can explore factors that influence overall health, like housing affordability, food security, and community safety, among others. The Foundation’s hope is that the dashboard will empower community members, leaders, and policymakers to learn more about the health of the local community.

    The Foundation plans to offer dashboard training, with free and publicly available options in the near future. More information is available at www.healthymatsu.org/matsumeasures.

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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 www.healthymatsu.org.

     
  • Mat-Su Health Foundation Welcomes Five New Board Members

    Mat-Su Health Foundation Welcomes Five New Board Members

    The Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) Board of Directors welcomed five new members effective June 16, 2025: Mat-Su residents John Brown, Simon Brown, Matthew Dungan, Daniel Graham, and Jennifer Rinaldi. The board is responsible for mission-based leadership and strategic governance of the Mat-Su Health Foundation and its joint ownership/governance of Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, LLC. Incoming board members join current board chair Lisa Wade and board members Tammy Bruce, Marisa Chud, Raelynn Danielowski, Dr. Barb Doty, David Eller, Greg Jones, Ross Newcombe, and Hilary Stark.

    “We have exciting new leadership emerging in our board room and within the Foundation,” said Esther Pitts, MSHF President and CEO. “The board plays a significant role in the strategic direction and governance of the Foundation and the relationship with Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. As we continue pursuing improved health across the borough, a strong, intentional, and multifaceted board is essential to our mission. These new board members have deep roots in the Mat-Su and a passion to see our community thrive, not only today but well into the future. I am thrilled to collaborate with them in the months and years ahead.”

    Recruitment focused on building board capacity and experience in the areas of education and school administration, hospital governance, and public service. Through the recruitment process, candidates were individually assessed, identifying existing board strengths and key opportunities to increase subject matter expertise. The appointment of these new board members underscores the commitment of the Foundation to comprehensively address the varied needs of the Mat-Su Borough.

    “We have been fortunate to continually welcome visionary and community-minded members to our board,” said MSHF Board Chair Lisa Wade. “The Mat-Su Valley is exceptional because of our residents—from Willow and Big Lake to Sutton and Chickaloon. Our responsibility to the community requires us to select the best candidates to advance our mission. John, Simon, Matthew, Dan, and Jennifer offer fresh perspectives and professional skills that will enhance the Foundation’s ability to meet the unique and diverse needs of the Mat-Su.”

    John Brown specializes in Mat-Su education, spending over 35 years in a variety of roles, including teacher, principal, and coach. In 2021, he retired as principal of Mat-Su Central School and has served on the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education since 2020. With his immense knowledge and first-hand experience, Brown offers a strong background in education to MSHF.

    Simon Brown comes from a long career in public service and emergency preparedness. He held leadership positions at both the statewide and local levels. Currently serving as the Commanding General of the Alaska State Defense Force, he leads statewide operations to ensure units are trained, equipped, and ready to respond to natural disasters, civil unrest, and other emergencies. Brown deeply values fairness and collaboration, both values that continue to serve the Foundation well.

    Matthew Dungan is an epidemiologist and public health professional specializing in substance misuse prevention and opioid use disorder (OUD) initiatives. He currently serves as a Public Health Specialist II for the Alaska Department of Health, overseeing statewide programs aimed at reducing opioid misuse and overdose deaths. His work reflects a deep commitment to community safety and wellness, with over a decade of experience in health program management, grant oversight, and community-driven initiatives.

    Daniel Graham relocated to the Valley after spending 15 years in Healy, Alaska. He has lived, learned, and worked in the state since 1983. Graham has incredibly valuable experience in engineering, project management, and high-level leadership. He brings a problem-solving, systems-level way of thinking to the Foundation.

    Jennifer Rinaldi is a lifelong Alaskan who made the Mat-Su her permanent home in 2008. Retiring in 2022 as a school principal, Rinaldi remains deeply committed to supporting educators at all stages of their careers—from pre-service teachers to experienced administrators. Jennifer has served on several local boards, including Big Lake Trails, Big Lake Library Advocates, and the Matanuska-Susitna Library Board. With her background, she is committed to improving the lives of children and families living in the Mat-Su.

    Service on the MSHF Board is on a volunteer basis. Board members serve an initial three-year term, and each term may be renewed for two additional three-year terms. More information is available at www.healthymatsu.org/about/board-of-directors.

     

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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 www.healthymatsu.org.

  • A Heartfelt Goodbye From Elizabeth Ripley

    A Heartfelt Goodbye From Elizabeth Ripley

    “It’s time. My last day serving as President & CEO of the Mat-Su Health Foundation is April 30. It’s been the honor of my life to steward this mission to improve the health of Mat-Su residents for the last 16-plus years. So many people were on this journey with me, supporting me, leading me, and encouraging me—board members, staff, tribal leaders, nonprofit partners, government officials, and neighbors caring for their neighbors.
     
    Everything we built, every system we improved, every program or service we launched, every policy or regulation we changed, we did it together. You were the visionary or influencer or instigator or leader or prodder or cheerleader or champion, and friend through all these years and in all the work. I’m grateful we could partner on this mission together.
     
    So many of you lead and represent nonprofits that are on the ground supporting our citizens and refugees, ensuring access to needed health and social services, providing meaningful activities to our youth, elders, and families, building trails to connect us back to the land and to each other. I salute you, my friends, for your partnership, your brilliance, and your steadfastness to Alaska and Alaskans, and of course to our beloved Mat-Su.
     
    In my wildest dreams, I could not have imagined how moving to this community would shape me and push me and fulfill me. Thank you for your trust in me and for the gift of this time, these relationships, and this meaningful mission. I look forward to applauding all of you and incoming President and CEO, Esther Pitts, as you continue to make Mat-Su the healthiest place to live, work, and play.”
  • Elizabeth Ripley to Receive 2025 Terrance Keenan Leadership Award

    Elizabeth Ripley to Receive 2025 Terrance Keenan Leadership Award

    Wasilla, Alaska – Elizabeth Ripley, President and CEO of the Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF), has been named the recipient of the 2025 Terrance Keenan Leadership Award in Health Philanthropy by Grantmakers In Health (GIH). This prestigious national honor recognizes grant makers whose work is distinguished by leadership, innovation, and outstanding achievement in the field of health philanthropy.

    Ripley will be formally recognized at the 2025 GIH Annual Conference on Health Philanthropy in New Orleans, Louisiana. She was nominated by her colleagues at MSHF, with support from Lisa Wade of the Chickaloon Village Traditional Council. In selecting Ms. Ripley, this year’s GIH committee members were particularly impressed with her courage to take risks, adapt to complex challenges, and champion bold initiatives, while also serving as a tremendous mentor to those in the field of philanthropy.

    “To be nominated and chosen to receive this award is a tremendous testament to the continued work of MSHF. Without the partnerships, relationships, and community support the Foundation established, perhaps only a fraction of our accomplishments could have been realized,” said Elizabeth Ripley, President and CEO of the Mat-Su Health Foundation. “While this honor may have my name attached to it, it is our community, grantees, scholars, local and statewide government partners, co-funders, and resilient Valley residents who have made these bold changes to health and well-being possible. I share this award with each and every one of them.”

    Since assuming leadership of MSHF in 2008, Ripley has transformed the organization into a national model for innovative and impactful health philanthropy. Under her guidance, MSHF has aligned hospital governance with community health priorities to drive measurable, systemic improvements in Alaska’s Matanuska-Susitna Borough.

    Key accomplishments during Ripley’s tenure include:​

    • Helping found the joint venture that built and launched Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, ensuring that hospital revenue remains within the community.​
    • Spearheading advances in local behavioral health, including the addition of a behavioral health wing at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center and support for initiatives like Mat-Su Crisis Now, the High Utilizer Mat-Su (HUMS) program, and the creation of the Mat-Su Crisis Intervention Team Coalition, which trains first responders in appropriate crisis response methods.
    • Advocating for local policies to support public health, including increased access to healthcare, especially behavioral health, and lowering costs through Medicaid expansion and key legislation.
    • Leading MSHF’s strategic focus on systems improvement, care coordination, and addressing social determinants of health through community engagement and data-driven initiatives.​
    • Ripley’s leadership has also extended beyond MSHF. She served on the board of The Foraker Group from 2010 to 2019, where she helped the state’s nonprofit association expand its fiscal agency, increase its advocacy and research, and strengthen the nonprofit sector across Alaska.

    As Ripley prepares to retire officially on April 30, 2025, her legacy of transformative leadership and dedication to community health will continue to influence health philanthropy in Alaska and nationwide.

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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 www.healthymatsu.org.

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

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

    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.”

  • Mat-Su Health Foundation Welcomes Two New Directors to Strengthen Policy and Public Relations

    Mat-Su Health Foundation Welcomes Two New Directors to Strengthen Policy and Public Relations

    Wasilla, Alaska—The Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) has hired Senator David Wilson as its new Director of Public Policy. Wilson, who served eight years in the state senate, brings a wealth of experience in public service and policy advocacy.

    Senator David Wilson, Director of Public Policy

    Senator Wilson has a distinguished record of service to the Mat-Su Valley and the State of Alaska. His extensive background in legislative affairs, fiscal responsibility, and his deep understanding of the healthcare landscape will be instrumental in advancing the Foundation’s mission to improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in the Mat-Su.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Senator Wilson to our team,” said MSHF President and CEO Elizabeth Ripley, “His dedication to public service and his deep understanding of healthcare policy will be instrumental in advancing our goal to measurably improve the health of the Mat-Su population.”

    In his new role, Senator Wilson will lead the Foundation’s public policy efforts, working closely with local, state, and federal stakeholders to advocate for policies that advance health, well-being, and equity.

    “I am honored to join the Mat-Su Health Foundation and contribute to its work,” said Senator Wilson. “I look forward to collaborating with the MSHF’s dedicated staff and our partners to create positive, lasting change in our community.”

    Erin Messmer, Director of Public Relations

    In addition, the MSHF has recently welcomed Erin Messmer as the Director of Public Relations. Messmer is a seasoned communications professional who has developed communications and public relations campaigns at the local, regional, and state levels. She has worked alongside some of the largest Tribal organizations and state agencies to advance public health initiatives that improve the lives of Alaskans.

    “Much of our work is centered around community and our relationships with Mat-Su residents,” said Ripley. “With Erin’s expertise, we look forward to strengthening our connections with the public and our constituents.”

    Senator Wilson and Messmer join the MSHF as the organization expands to better serve the Valley through philanthropy, community engagement, policy and advocacy, and vital systems change.

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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 www.healthymatsu.org.