The REACH Healthcare Foundation has announced new roles and responsibilities for its Board of Directors as the Foundation continues its work to advance equitable health outcomes across the region.
The Board of Directors provides oversight and guidance for REACH’s mission, resources and long-term direction. As the Foundation prepares to implement its upcoming strategic plan, board leadership will play an important role in helping REACH stay focused on its core commitments while remaining responsive to changing community needs, policy shifts and funding challenges.
As part of the board transition, Patti Myklos-Boyd will serve as board chair, Octavio Estrella will serve as vice chair, Jenna Rose will serve as treasurer, and Celia Byers will serve as secretary. Joe Waters and Anna Sahli will join these officers on the Executive Committee as at-large members. The Executive Committee provides leadership to the Foundation’s Board of Directors as it continues investing in organizations and efforts that expand access to health care, strengthen the safety net and support communities that have been overlooked or underserved.
Two current members of the Board, Nicole Palmer and Jenna Rose, were reappointed to a second, three-year term by the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners.
“REACH’s work has always been rooted in listening to our partners and responding to what communities need,” said Brenda Sharpe, president and CEO of the REACH Healthcare Foundation. “As we move into this next chapter, our Board of Directors will help us stay grounded in our mission while remaining flexible enough to meet the moment. The coming years will require us to deepen our support, stay connected to community and continue working alongside partners to advance health and well-being across our region. REACH is blessed with a passionate, diverse Board of community experts to guide the way.”
REACH also extends its appreciation to outgoing board member Deryl Wynn, whose two terms on the Board have concluded. Representing the Wyandotte County service area, Wynn has been a steady advocate for continued investment in organizations serving communities that have been historically overlooked and underserved.
The board’s leadership and commitment continue to shape REACH’s work and strengthen its impact across Kansas and Missouri. Through its guidance, the Foundation has continued to evolve its grantmaking, expand partnerships and remain focused on the people and organizations working closest to community needs.
As REACH looks ahead, the Foundation remains committed to staying the course while preparing for the realities of the coming years. That means doubling down on support for trusted partners, strengthening community-rooted solutions and preserving the flexibility needed to respond as needs emerge.
With the leadership of its Board of Directors, staff and partners, REACH is entering its next chapter grounded in its mission and focused on the work ahead.
