Effective this week, the chief executive officer of Community Health Centers of Arkansas, LaShannon Spencer, has resigned. Spencer released the following statement:
“I will be stepping down to explore other health care career opportunities that will afford me the chance to continue to serve as a health care advocate for the most vulnerable while championing the ways in which we can address the health inequities so many Arkansans face. This has been a rewarding journey, full of accomplishments and the opportunity to meet and partner with many wonderful stakeholders.
“Saying thank you doesn’t capture the depth of my appreciation for many stakeholders from both sides of the political spectrum who understood my passion and drive to change and improve access to health care services. Thanks to the CHCA Board for the chance to serve at the helm.”
Board Chair Brigitte McDonald said, “While LaShannon’s compassion in seeking ways to reduce health care disparities in Arkansas are greatly appreciated, the CHCA Board is excited about the future for CHCA, our member institutions, and most importantly our patients who will continue to receive the same high level of care they’ve come to expect. The Board wishes LaShannon well in her future endeavors. We will conduct a national search to hire a top quality health care leader and administrator.”
Lisa Weaver has been named interim chief executive officer
while the CHCA Board of Directors seeks to fill the role on a permanent basis.
Weaver is a highly trusted, knowledgeable and dedicated leader in health care, most recently serving as chief operating officer at CHCA.
Spencer will serve as a consultant to CHCA over the next three months aiding
the transition.
About: CHCs are non-profit entities fueled by patient revenue and federal grants meant to expand health care access for low-income, minority, and rural populations. CHCs provide many services including primary care, dental, behavioral health, and health education.
Altogether, 12 CHCs in Arkansas (including 10 member CHCA organizations) serve more than 240,000 people a year at more than 140 sites. Nationally, nearly 1,400 CHCs serve 30 million patients a year.
