Northern Arizona Healthcare Foundation is now a separate entity from NAH − a decision voted on by the NAH Board of Directors − and now operates under its own governing board. This change allows for more flexibility in funding activities; coordinating major gifts; and allocating dollars for community initiatives. NAH Foundation will remain a full-service foundation focused on meaningful philanthropy to support the delivery of quality healthcare and maximize collaborative impact on community health.
Richard “Rick” Smith, former NAH Vice President of Development and Communications, will now serve as the president and CEO of the NAH Foundation. The NAH Foundation board currently consists of six members who were chosen for their business, education and corporate experience, including:
- Chris Bavasi − Chair
- Richard Cranmer, C.P.A., A.T.A., A.T.P. − Treasurer
- Richard Kruse − Secretary
- Deirdre Meldrum, Ph.D. − Vice chair
- Jim Ousley − Governance
- Richard Smith, Ed.D. − President and CEO of NAH Foundation
Access to quality healthcare is a critical component of our Northern Arizona lifestyle. Having an independent NAH Foundation will encourage even greater support for and enhancement of that lifestyle.
Chris Bavasi
The Foundation will continue to write grants, host fundraising events and fund corporate sponsorships while increasing its focus on deferred and estate giving, investment opportunities and new funding initiatives. Community health, another primary focus of the NAH Foundation, will begin with a community needs assessment initiative.