Category: Stories

  • MSHF Promotes Jessica Clarkson to Director of R.O.C.K. Mat-Su

    MSHF Promotes Jessica Clarkson to Director of R.O.C.K. Mat-Su

    Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) is proud to announce the promotion of Jessica Clarkson to Director of R.O.C.K. Mat-Su, a collective impact model organization comprised of local stakeholders who are committed to ending child abuse and neglect across the Mat-Su Borough.

    The Director of R.O.C.K. provides high-level leadership and direction and ensures alignment between the steering committee, staff, and community partners. Clarkson will provide structural support to the collective’s work toward shared goals and strengthen collaboration among partners.

    “Jessica has worked for over a decade to see that our local children and families have what they need to grow up healthy and happy,” said Vandana Ingle, MSHF’s Chief Community Impact Officer. “Her steady vision for improving family contact and passion for strengthening partnerships to meet the needs of local parents and caregivers are keystones for continued impact and improved outcomes for our children.”

    Previously serving as the Associate Director of R.O.C.K., Clarkson brings extensive experience in child and family services and has long been a part of the R.O.C.K. collective. Before joining the MSHF team, she worked as project coordinator for the Palmer Families with Infants and Toddlers (FIT) Court. She also worked as the coordinator for Valley Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program, children’s clinical therapist, and a school social worker. Alongside a dedicated R.O.C.K. workgroup, Jessica’s time at R.O.C.K. has focused on improving family contact, including approaches now widely used by child protective services to support case workers, parents, and children during family contact visits.

    “I am honored to step into this role with great excitement and hope,” Clarkson said. “Healthy families and children are the foundation for furthering the wellness of Mat-Su, and I am dedicated to strengthening the systems in which we all interact. Prevention is not the work of one organization—it is the shared responsibility of an entire community. Together we can collectively ensure all children and families thrive in the Mat-Su.”

    R.O.C.K. Mat-Su partners with over 70 local organizations and agencies to drive systems-level, upstream change through shared learning, social connections, and multiple initiatives focused on family health. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the MSHF program.

  • MSHF Names Ashley Peltier as Director of Philanthropy

    MSHF Names Ashley Peltier as Director of Philanthropy

    Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) has named Ashley Peltier as Director of Philanthropy, effective May 4. In her new role, she will oversee and provide strategic leadership to the MSHF Philanthropic team. The philanthropy team works alongside local nonprofit organizations seeking grants that support projects, provide resources, and build capacity to improve the health and wellness of Mat-Su residents.  

    “Ashley has a thoughtful and forward‑thinking vision for philanthropy and how our team can continue to grow, collaborate, and refine our strategy,” said Vandana Ingle, Chief Community Impact Officer at MSHF. “She will continue to strengthen our grantmaking, deepen alignment across departments, and support a cohesive, high-functioning team environment.”  

    Peltier brings 15 years of experience in community health, systems collaboration, and strategic program development, including six years with the Foundation. Most recently serving as Director of Connect Mat-Su, she led the program from concept to implementation, strengthening partnerships across healthcare, social services, philanthropy, and community organizations to improve outcomes for Mat-Su residents.

    Prior to joining the Foundation, Peltier served as Director of Programs with the American Lung Association, where she focused on health promotion, advocacy, and statewide partnership development, leading advocacy efforts and implementation of the Alaska State Fair’s smokefree policy and Alaska’s Smokefree Workplace law. She also brings experience in Tribal health, having spent portions of her professional career at Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium and Southcentral Foundation. 

    “I’m excited to step into this new role at such a critical time,” Peltier said. “As MSHF moves forward, I’m committed to bringing greater clarity to our priorities, strengthening accountability in how we invest, and focusing on meaningful, measurable impact that improves the health of the community I call home.” 

    Peltier’s appointment underscores MSHF’s commitment to thoughtful, place-based, and mission‑driven philanthropy and strong internal leadership. As Director of Philanthropy, she will work closely with staff and community partners to ensure investments are aligned, effective, and responsive to community priorities. In her free time, Ashley loves to golf, travel, and spend time with her husband and their pets. 

  • Learning in Motion: What We Brought Home From 675 Miles Across Texas

    Learning in Motion: What We Brought Home From 675 Miles Across Texas

    Earlier this year, a team of Mat-Su Health Foundation staff and board members traveled more than 675 miles across Texas, visiting organizations in Austin, San Antonio, McAllen, and Houston. Over the course of several days, they met with nine different groups—three peer health foundations and six community‑based organizations—each offering a unique perspective on what it takes to support health across large, diverse regions. 

    Although the landscapes and views are different, many of the challenges feel familiar.

    Central Texas has a great deal in common with the Mat-Su: large rural service areas, communities spread across wide geographies, and the need for systems that meet people where they are.

    This visit provided an opportunity to learn how others are engaging community voice, investing in economic mobility as a core health driver, and shifting systems toward long-term, generational change.  

    A Clear Purpose from the Start 

    “This was not a trip to compare ourselves to others, nor to seek prescriptive answers. Rather, it was an opportunity to listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, and reflect on what resonates and challenges us here at Mat-Su Health Foundation,” said Esther Pitts, President and CEO, Mat-Su Health Foundation.  

    “The insights we gathered will help inform our collective thinking as we look ahead to the future and the work we do.” 

    This spirit of curiosity guided board members and staff through every visit. By traveling together, board and staff were able to hear directly from peer foundations that have restructured their strategies, deepened community engagement, and embraced upstream investments with patience and clarity. 

    Why Texas Made Sense 

    Texas offered a window into what it looks like when foundations pair local knowledge with long-term strategy. Many of the organizations visited have spent years shifting power toward communities, moving away from transactional funding models, and focusing on systems rather than individual programs. 

    For the Mat-Su Health Foundation team, it was encouraging (and at times challenging) to see how other regions are approaching the slow, steady, upstream work; work that often goes unseen but leads to lasting change.  

    Many of the foundations the team met with invest not only in services, but in relationships, shared infrastructure, and the capacity of communities to build solutions from within. The experience raised important questions for the work at MSHF and strengthened the commitment to grounding decisions in community voice. 

    Learning that Shifts Perspectives 

    Throughout the trip, participants found themselves reflecting on what it means to create lasting, upstream change in the Mat-Su. The conversations in Texas prompted the group to think more deeply about pace, focus, and how strategy can support long-term community wellbeing. 

    Board member Hilary Stark noted how the experience connects with the insights emerging from the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). 

    “Our time with peer foundations, paired with the recently published CHNA, offered more than information; it offered perspective,” Stark said. “This moment asks for something deeper than adjustment or refinement. It asks for discernment.” 

    Her reflection underscored themes that surfaced for many on the trip: that health is shaped long before someone enters a clinic; systems change takes patience and clarity; and foundations can play a powerful role by strengthening connections across communities. 

    Moving Forward with a Deeper Connection 

    This learning trip wasn’t about immediate solutions. It was about planting the seeds of ideas, questions, and possibilities that will guide the Foundation into the next chapter. 

    “This trip really brought to life one of MSHF’s organizational values that I appreciate: respect,” said trip organizer Telsche Overby, Associate Director of Community Engagement. “To me, respect shows up most clearly in our commitment to continuous learning. We’re making sure our decisions are grounded in what’s true and effective, and that we’re checking our thinking with the community along the way. I’m excited about how these insights will carry forward as we continue to lean more into community-driven approaches.” 

    What the team brought home from Texas was a renewed sense of direction and a deeper commitment to community-guided, upstream work. The organizations visited serve as a reminder that lasting change rarely comes from doing more; it comes from doing the right work, with greater intention, humility, and alignment. 

    As MSHF looks toward the future, it aims to continue growing into an organization that strengthens systems, invests in the conditions that support wellbeing, and helps build a healthier Mat-Su for generations to come. 

    Special thank you to Texas Accountable Communities for Health Initiative (TACHI), Go Austin/Vamos Austin (GAVA),  St. David’s Foundation, Methodist Healthcare Ministries, Episcopal Health Foundation, and the Houston Economic Growth Collaborative. 

    Photos courtesy of Jacob Camman, SALT

  • Mat-Su Health Foundation Welcomes Csesalie Bates as New Chief Adminstrative Officer

    Mat-Su Health Foundation Welcomes Csesalie Bates as New Chief Adminstrative Officer

    The Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) has hired Csesalie Bates as the new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), following a nationwide search. A Mat-Su Valley resident, Bates emerged as a mission driven leader who has a strong belief in building systems to help support Alaskans achieve their best life. She will lead internal operations, administrative strategy, and enterprise-wide systems that support the Foundation’s mission to improve the health and wellness of Mat-Su residents.

    “Csesalie brings powerful healthcare administration experience combined with expertise in building operational efficiency to our organization,” said Esther Pitts, MSHF President and CEO. “These qualities, along with her missional alignment perfectly situates her within the Foundation’s strategic direction, making her a phenomenal addition to our team.”

    Prior to joining MSHF, Bates held a senior leadership role in the healthcare sector where she led operations for three Class A healthcare facilities and supported more than 100 employees across clinical and administrative teams. Her leadership contributed to year-over-year organizational growth and meaningful community outcomes, including expanded diagnostic access, strengthened patient navigation programs, and oversight of major capital projects that improved local healthcare capacity.

    Bates holds a Bachelor of Business Management and has guided teams through system enhancements and organizational change. She has implemented high-impact tools and workflows that increase efficiency, transparency, and staff engagement. Her leadership approach consistently centers people, collaboration, and strong working relationships.

    “Strong internal systems are essential to achieving lasting community impact,” said Csesalie Bates, MSHF CAO. “I’m focused on building the operational clarity, alignment, and support our team needs to do their best work for the Mat-Su community.”

    Throughout her career, Bates has been recognized for her commitment to creating environments where people feel supported and equipped to excel. As a long-time resident of the Mat-Su Valley, Bates is dedicated to advancing the Foundation’s work in the community she and her family call home. In her free time, she enjoys coaching her children’s soccer teams and recreating outdoors.

  • R.O.C.K. Mat-Su Honors Julie Hubbard with 2025 R.O.C.K. Star Award

    R.O.C.K. Mat-Su Honors Julie Hubbard with 2025 R.O.C.K. Star Award

    Pictured left to right: Nikki Maidl, Julie Hubbard, Mariah Johnson

    R.O.C.K. Mat-Su is proud to announce Julie Hubbard as the recipient of the 2025 R.O.C.K. Star Award, recognizing her dedication to improving the lives of children and families throughout the Mat-Su.

    A consistent champion of innovative ideas and meaningful community connections, Hubbard has been deeply involved in R.O.C.K. Mat-Su’s Community Baby Showers and Child Abuse Prevention Awareness efforts. Her leadership, creative insight, and ability to foster strong community relationships have strengthened these programs and expanded their reach across the region.

    Hubbard’s involvement within the R.O.C.K. Mat-Su collaborative network continues to grow through her active role in partner meetings, where she often serves as a trusted, effective co-host. Her steady presence and commitment to partnership have helped strengthen coordination among local organizations working to support children and families.

    Beyond her ongoing contributions, Hubbard has been a powerful advocate for addressing foster care placement challenges in the Mat-Su. Her efforts to raise awareness about the number of children placed outside the borough—due to a shortage of local foster homes—have drawn critical attention to an urgent community need. Through her advocacy, she continues to champion solutions that support the stability and well-being of the borough’s most vulnerable children.

    “We are honored to recognize Julie with this year’s R.O.C.K. Star Award,” said Jessica Clarkson, Associate Director for R.O.C.K. Mat-Su. “Her passion, commitment, and unwavering advocacy have made a meaningful difference in the lives of families across our community. We are grateful for all she has done, and continues to do, on behalf of Mat-Su children.”

    R.O.C.K. Mat-Su and the Mat-Su Health Foundation extend heartfelt congratulations to Julie Hubbard on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to the continued positive impact of her work in the community.

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    About R.O.C.K. Mat-Su: R.O.C.K. (Raising Our Children with Kindness) Mat-Su is cross-sector collaborative of organizations, individuals, funders, and state agencies that support healthy, resilient families in Mat-Su. Utilizing the Collective Impact Framework, R.O.C.K. Mat-Su works toward a vision where all Mat-Su children are safe, healthy, and thriving. Mat-Su Health Foundation serves as the backbone organization by providing dedicated staff and infrastructure to support the work of the collective. More information is available at rockmatsu.org.

    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 Appoints Erin Messmer As Chief Communications Officer

    Mat-Su Health Foundation Appoints Erin Messmer As Chief Communications Officer

    The Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) today announced the appointment of Erin Messmer as its Chief Communications Officer (CCO). In this role, Messmer will lead strategic communications efforts, including marketing, media, and public relations. She currently serves as the Director of Public Relations at MSHF and will assume her new role effective August 18, 2025.

    “The Foundation is ready to embrace a fresh approach to communications with Erin leading the way,” said Esther Pitts, MSHF President and CEO. “She is passionate about the health of the Mat-Su, and her dedication to uplifting the work of the Foundation, our grantees, scholars, and community partners is unmatched. With her expertise in public health and social marketing, she will bring a new level of direction, innovation, and strategy to our communications.”

    As the CCO, Messmer will ensure that all aspects of the Foundation’s communications amplify the mission of a healthier Mat-Su. Additionally, she will focus on building the MSHF communications team, leveraging her leadership experience to establish a cohesive, high-performing department.

    “Communications for better health are my passion, and I could not be more honored to step into this role at the Foundation. Joining a leadership team that consistently makes meaningful impacts across the Mat-Su is a tremendous gift,” said Messmer. “Our region is such a unique place, and I am excited to dive deeper into its beauty through storytelling, communications, and relationships with our community and partners.”

    Born in Juneau and raised in Seward, Erin is no stranger to the state’s unique communications landscape. Before joining the Foundation, Messmer was the director of client services at a full-service brand marketing agency in Anchorage, Alaska. Her communications expertise spans a multitude of fields related to health, including chronic disease prevention and health promotion, tobacco prevention and control, youth vaping cessation, public safety, cultural communications, behavior change messaging, and domestic violence and sexual assault awareness and prevention. She has worked in partnership with Tribal, state and national organizations, including the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, Maniilaq Health Center, the Anchorage Police Department, and the United States Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women. Messmer holds a bachelor’s degree in strategic and corporate communication from Chapman University.

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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 Selects Vandana Ingle as Chief Community Impact Officer

    Mat-Su Health Foundation Selects Vandana Ingle as Chief Community Impact Officer

    The Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) has hired Vandana Ingle in the role of Chief Community Impact Officer (CCIO). Ingle was selected from a diverse field of candidates following an intensive recruitment process that attracted over 70 applicants. With over 20 years of non-profit experience, her ability to align strategy with measurable outcomes, develop cohesive teams, and lead meaningful systems change set her apart in a field of strong contenders. She will transition fully into her new position on August 18, 2025.

    “The Foundation is fortunate to welcome Vandana as our new CCIO. She is entrenched in our local community and is dedicated to serving the Mat-Su not only in her professional life but as a community member as well,” said Esther Pitts, President and CEO of the Foundation. “Vandana approaches each new challenge with curiosity and a tenacity that will continue to support our mission of health and wellness for all Valley residents. Our staff, community partners, and grantees are thrilled to continue working with her in this new capacity.”

    As the CCIO, Ingle will lead the Foundation’s programmatic and philanthropic work. She will support MSHF teams tasked with grantmaking, scholarships and workforce development, and data collection and analysis, and provide oversight for Foundation programs, such as Connect Mat-Su, a local resource and referral hub, and R.O.C.K. Mat-Su (Raising Our Children with Kindness), which is focused on promoting family resilience and reducing child maltreatment in the Mat-Su Borough. Vandana joined the Foundation in 2016 as a program associate, advancing to program officer and then senior program officer over her tenure.

    “I am deeply honored to accept this role here at the Mat-Su Health Foundation. I want to continue working closely with our partners to ensure our community members feel heard, supported, and included in the great work being done in the Valley,” said Ingle. “The Mat-Su has been home to me for many years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to play a role in helping all residents find a sense of belonging and genuine wellbeing here in the borough.”

    Ingle moved to Mat-Su in 2012. Before her work at MSHF, Vandana served as Executive Director of Frontline Mission, a community-based food distribution center. She holds an MBA from Northwest Nazarene University, a bachelor’s degree in commerce and finance from the University of Pune, and an additional degree in ministry. She also completed extensive academic work in communications and media with a focus on tailored communications for children. She recently received the “Friend of Nightingale” award presented by Nightingale College in Utah, honoring her efforts in strengthening the nursing workforce in the state of Alaska.

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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.

  • Thrive Mat-Su Coalition Receives Bert Hall Award For Improving Youth Resources in Mat-Su

    Thrive Mat-Su Coalition Receives Bert Hall Award For Improving Youth Resources in Mat-Su

    Wasilla, Alaska – Thrive Mat-Su Coalition (Thrive) has been honored with the 2025 Bert Hall Award for Commitment to the Health of the Community. The “Bertie” is presented annually by the Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) to an individual or group that consistently exemplifies commitment to improving the health and wellness of Mat-Su residents. Thrive, along with United Way of Mat-Su and Youth 360, was presented with the award at the MSHF Annual Meeting on Monday, June 9, 2025.

    “Mat-Su youth are a core focus for the Foundation and our community partners,” said Esther Pitts, MSHF President and CEO. “Thrive, United Way of Mat-Su, and Youth 360 have been working collaboratively across our region to create positive impact on local systems and support for youth. Because of this phenomenal work, our youth are growing up in an environment with greater access to social connectivity, healthy activities, and programs that support their critical developmental years.”

    Esther Pitts, President & CEO of MSHF, with Stephanie Allen from United Way of Mat-Su, Matthew Clayton of Thrive Mat-Su Coalition, and Tyler Healy of Youth 360

    Thrive was established 18 years ago with the goal of reducing youth substance misuse and improving community wellness in the Mat-Su Borough. Youth 360 is committed to providing safe and invigorating environments for young people to explore, study, and flourish. Together, Thrive and Youth 360 have built a system of positive youth development through a collaborative approach. They coordinate and promote a variety of out-of-school opportunities in the Mat-Su. They work with numerous community partners—including faith-based organizations, nonprofits, local businesses, behavioral health providers, school districts, volunteers, and other coalitions—to serve Mat-Su Borough youth and make long-term investments in their well-being. Thrive, along with Youth 360, are both under the umbrella of United Way of Mat-Su.

    “We are deeply honored to be selected for the Bert Hall award,” shared Stephanie Allen, United Way of Mat-Su Executive Director. “It means so much to United Way of Mat-Su, Thrive, and Youth 360 to be recognized for our commitment to Mat-Su youth and families. We have such incredibly joyful jobs. It truly is a blessing to get to work with youth, families, and fantastic community partners. Thank you so much to Mat-Su Health Foundation for this recognition and award.”

    The Bert Hall Award is named in honor of Mat-Su resident Bert Hall, who helped put together the Valley Hospital Foundation Board of Directors. Bert has served Alaska in many capacities, including as a Mat-Su Regional Medical Center board member, associate director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, commissioner of the Alaska Department of Health and Human Services, director of health and social services for the Municipality of Anchorage, and as the Alaska liaison to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Bert also served as president of the Alaska Public Health Association, represented Alaska on the Governing Council of the American Public Health Association, and served on the Alaska Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.

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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, the MSHF board members and representatives actively participate in the governance of Mat-Su’s community hospital and protect the community’s interest in this important healthcare institution through board oversight. The MSHF invests its assets into charitable works that improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in Mat-Su. More information is available at www.healthymatsu.org/.

  • 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.