At a time when healthcare systems face growing demands and complex threats, the Northwest Healthcare Response Network (Network) stands as a vital, unifying force. As Chair of the Board, I have seen firsthand how the Network brings together public and private partners across the state to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies that affect the health and safety of our communities.
From natural disasters and power outages to resource shortages and surge events, NWHRN ensures that healthcare organizations are not facing these challenges alone. The Network strengthens coordination among hospitals, public health agencies, long-term care facilities, EMS, and emergency management—providing a platform for collaboration, situational awareness, and shared solutions.
We stand in support of our Chief Executive Officer, Onora Lien, her leadership team and entire staff who are “always on” in their statewide collaborations that result in planning, responding and stabilizing our healthcare preparedness when a crisis occurs.
The Network’s mission is simple yet essential: protect health, preserve services, and promote resilience. On behalf of the Board, I’m proud to support an organization that works every day to build a stronger, more connected, and more prepared healthcare system across Washington state.
Chair:
Senior Policy Advisor, Snohomish County Executive’s Office and Adjunct Faculty University of Alaska
Vice-Chair:
Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, MultiCare Health System
Secretary:
Interim Chief Medical Officer, Overlake Hospital Medical Center and Clinics
Treasurer:
Director, Financial Planning and Operations, EvergreenHealth
Ex Officio:
Chief Executive Officer, NWHRN
Executive Director, Edmonds Landing Assisted Living
Retired EMS, Public Health & Emergency Management Executive
Director of Policy and Planning, Public Health- Seattle and King County
Independent Management Consultant
Chief Operating Officer, Kaiser Permanente Washington
Executive Director, Olympic Ambulance and WA Market Executive Director, Metro West Family of Companies
Healthcare and Public Health Executive
Executive Medical Director, Swedish Acute Care & Medical Director, Providence Staffing, Transfer and Operations Center
Chief Clinical Officer, Klickitat Valley Health
The Northwest Healthcare Response Network is guided by an independent Board of Directors committed to advancing our mission to strengthen healthcare preparedness and response across Washington state. Our Board plays a vital role in shaping our organization’s direction and ensuring our work has meaningful impact across the communities we serve.
Board members are selected for their leadership, expertise, and shared commitment to public health, different than board selection models considering employer or financial contributions. Directors serve in their individual capacity and bring diverse experience from both healthcare and non-healthcare sectors. There are no designated seats for specific industries; instead, we prioritize individuals who can offer insight, support strategic partnerships, and help us navigate an evolving landscape.
In their role, Board members help define our mission, vision, and long-term goals. They provide governance oversight, develop policies that guide operations, and ensure the organization is meeting its legal and ethical obligations. The Board is also responsible for fiduciary oversight, including approving the budget, monitoring financial performance, and supporting fundraising efforts that sustain our work.
Beyond strategy and finance, Board members help ensure the effectiveness of our programs, advocate on behalf of the organization, and strengthen public and private relationships to extend our reach. They help us identify and manage risks, offer leadership during times of crisis, and provide guidance and evaluation for the Executive Director. Through this collaborative and mission-driven leadership, the Board helps ensure the Network remains a trusted, responsive, and forward-looking force for health and safety across Washington.