What began as a bold idea— a regional organized community care delivery system—has evolved into a nationally recognized framework, informing healthcare organizations across the country and improving lives through connected, community-centered care.
25th Annual Vision & Excellence in Healthcare Leadership Tribute Dinner
Honoring
Cástulo de la Rocha
President and CEO
AltaMed Health Services Corporation
Vision & Excellence in Healthcare Leadership Award
Thomas M. Priselac
President and CEO Emeritus
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Health System
Lifetime Achievement Award
Thursday, June 12, 2025
Fairmont Century Plaza
California Level - Los Angeles Ballroom 10206 Constellation Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90067
Reception: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Dinner and Program: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Welcome to the 2025 Vision & Excellence in Healthcare Leadership Tribute Dinner
We’re honored to welcome you this evening as we celebrate two extraordinary leaders— Cástulo de la Rocha and Thomas M. Priselac —whose vision, integrity, and service have profoundly shaped the healthcare landscape in Southern California and beyond.
This year marks a significant milestone the 25th anniversary of the Vision and Excellence in Healthcare Leadership Tribute Dinner. Since its inception, this event has stood as a powerful reflection of our enduring commitment to honoring leaders who advance healthcare with purpose, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to community care. Tonight’s celebration proudly continues that legacy.
For more than 27 years, Partners in Care Foundation has been a driving collaborative force in reshaping how care is delivered—building the operational infrastructure needed to provide coordinated, cost-effective, and communitycentered services throughout California. At the heart of this work is our Community Care HUB, which connects healthcare organizations to a trusted network of local community partners—ensuring that services reach people where they live
Jennifer L. Kozakowski Board Chair
June Simmons President & CEO
and thrive. Our models are grounded in early risk detection, streamlined care transitions, and practical, person-centered support that improves stability and quality of life.
Developed in collaboration with health providers, payers and public agencies, our approach blends data-driven strategies with deep human insight. Powered by a talented workforce, Partners delivers measurable results—earning its place as a trusted partner in navigating today’s complex healthcare environment.
As we look to the future, may this evening renew our shared commitment to bold leadership, enduring collaboration, and lasting impact—advancing a healthier, more connected world for all.
With appreciation,
Jennifer L. Kozakowski Chair, Partners in Care Foundation Board of Directors
June Simmons President & CEO Partners in Care Foundation
2025 Award for Vision & Excellence in Healthcare Leadership
Cástulo de la Rocha President and CEO of AltaMed Health Services Corporation
Cástulo de la Rocha is a visionary leader in community health and the longtime President and CEO of AltaMed Health Services Corporation, the largest Federally Qualified Health Center in the nation. Since founding AltaMed in 1977, Mr. de la Rocha has transformed it from a small storefront clinic in East Los Angeles into a regional health system with over 80 sites, 5,700 employees, and nearly 700,000 patients served annually.
Driven by a strong belief that health and prosperity go hand in hand, Mr. de la Rocha built AltaMed to meet the needs of underserved neighborhoods across Southern California. His comprehensive, community-centered approach—grounded in global risk and value-based care—has earned national acclaim and established a scalable model for delivering high-quality, culturally responsive healthcare.
Mr. de la Rocha has received numerous accolades, including the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Business
Leader Award and Univision’s Univisionario honor, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the community. In 2017, he was awarded the Medallion of Excellence for Education, Science, Medicine, and Civil Rights by the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
Mr. de la Rocha serves on the boards of National Medical Fellowships, America’s Physician Groups, the Museum of Latin American Art, and the Latino Victory Fund. A passionate advocate for the arts, he is also the founder of the AltaMed Art Collection, which showcases the stories and struggles of historically underserved communities across the AltaMed network.
Through it all, Mr. de la Rocha has redefined leadership in healthcare building a legacy rooted in dignity, access, and lasting impact.
For his complete biography and in-depth interview, please scan the QR code.
2025 Lifetime Achievement Award
Thomas
M. Priselac President and CEO Emeritus of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai
Health System
Thomas M. Priselac is President and CEO Emeritus of CedarsSinai Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Health System . A nationally respected voice in healthcare leadership, Mr. Priselac guided Cedars-Sinai’s evolution from a community hospital into a world-renowned academic health system recognized for clinical excellence, research, education, and community impact. He joined Cedars-Sinai in 1979 and served as President and CEO of the Medical Center from 1994 to 2024 and CEO of the Health System from its founding in 2017. Under his leadership, CedarsSinai expanded its reach, strengthened its reputation for highquality, efficient care, and deepened its role as a vital resource for the Los Angeles region and beyond. He holds the Warschaw/Law Endowed Chair in Health Care Leadership at Cedars-Sinai.
Mr. Priselac is a past Chair of the American Hospital Association Board of Trustees, where he helped shape national healthcare
policy during the development of the Affordable Care Act. He also previously chaired the Association of American Medical Colleges, the California Hospital Association, and the Hospital Association of Southern California.
He currently serves on the advisory boards of the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics and the RAND Social and Economic Policy Program and is an Adjunct Professor at the UCLA School of Public Health.
Mr. Priselac earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Washington & Jefferson College and a Master of Public Health in health services administration and planning from the University of Pittsburgh—training that laid the foundation for a lifetime of health system innovation and service.
For his complete biography and in-depth interview, please scan the QR code.
Premier Sponsors Diamond Sponsors
Ruby Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors
We regret omission of logos not available at press time.
ALFRED E. MANN CHARITIES
Fabian Nunez
Bronze Sponsors
We regret omission of logos not available at press time.
Jack & Carissa Schlosser
Frances Hanckel
Richard & Nancy Flores
Cathi Cunningham &
MARTA FERNANDEZ
Partners in Care Foundation 2025 Board of Directors
Officers
President and CEO
June Simmons
Board Chair
Jennifer L. Kozakowski
Retired Health Care Executive
Vice Chair
Jennifer Heenan
Partner
Spencer Stuart
Vice Chair
Jack Schlosser
Founder & Principal
Desert Vista Advisors
Treasurer
Edward Kim
Founder & Principal
Grok Advisors
Secretary
Manoj K. Mathew, MD, SFHM
Former National Medical Director
Agilon Health
Past Chair
Katherine A. Kirchhoff
Managing Director
Cain Brothers & Company, LLC
Members
Paul Craig, JD Health Care Consultant
Former Chief Administrative Officer
Keck Medicine of USC
Don Crane, JD Healthcare Advocacy
Cathi Cunningham Partner
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Amir Desai
Executive Vice President CIO & Operations, Molina Healthcare
James B. Edwards President & Chief Strategy Officer
Carins Health
Seth Ellis Executive Consultant MemorialCare Health System
Marta Fernandez, JD Partner
Jeffer, Mangels, Butler, and Mitchell LLP
Amanda J. Flaum
Vice President CA & HI Medicaid
Kaiser Permanente
Poonam Gorakshakar, MD, FSHM
Regional Medical Director
Blue Shield of California
Gordon M. Johnson
President
KeyGroup
James Lott, PsyD
Healthcare Advocacy
Robert W. Lundy, JD
Partner
Hooper, Lundy & Bookman PC
Jill Martin
Executive Vice President
Cedars Sinai Medical Network
Adriana Mendoza
Associate Director Advocacy and Community Engagement
AARP California
Rekha Murthy, MD
Healthcare Advocacy
Stephen T. O’Dell
President
Badass Productions CO, LLC
Alfred Poirier
Deputy Fire Chief
Beverly Hills Fire Department
Shawn Sheffield
Chief Strategy Officer
Keck Medicine of USC
Alexander Strachan, MD, MBA
Chief Medical Officer Northeast Cinqcare
Gerald Sullivan Chairman
G. J. Sullivan Co., Reinsurance
PREMIER LEVEL Sponsors
“After the hospital, I was scared to go home alone. Partners called, checked on me, and made sure I had everything I needed. I didn’t fall through the cracks. Their compassion wasn’t a service — it was a lifeline.”
– Care Transitions Participant, Post-Surgery Recovery
PREMIER SPONSOR
PREMIER SPONSOR
PREMIER SPONSOR
PREMIER SPONSOR
2025 Tribute Dinner Committee
Chair
Jennifer Heenan Partner
Spencer Stuart
Members
Sajid Ahmed
Chief Executive Officer
WISE Healthcare
Don Crane, JD Healthcare Advocacy
Amir Desai
Executive Vice President, CIO & Operations Molina Healthcare
Amanda Flaum
Vice President CA & HI Medicaid
Kaiser Permanente
Thomas D. Gordon
Chairman of the Board
DSL Construction Corporation
Retired Executive Vice President
Cedars-Sinai Medical Network
Duke Helfand
Executive Director, Communications & Chief Communications Officer
Cedars-Sinai
Jennifer L. Kozakowski, MN, MPH
Retired Health Care Executive
Manoj K. Mathew, MD, SFHM
Former National Medical Director
Agilon Health
Beth McDonnell
Vice President Marketing & Communications & Chief Marketing Officer
Cedars-Sinai
Sharlene Risdon-Jackson Vice President, Foundation Development AltaMed
Christina Sanchez Vice President, Public Affairs AltaMed
Jack Schlosser
Founder & Principal Desert Vista Advisors
Shawn Sheffield Chief Strategy Officer
Keck Medicine of USC
Matthew Siegler
Senior Vice President
NYC Health & Hospitals Chief Executive Officer
HHC Accountable Care Organization
Gerald Sullivan Chairman
G. J. Sullivan Co., Reinsurance
Paul S. Viviano
President & Chief Executive Officer
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
2025 Honorary Tribute Co-Chairs
Martha Santana-Chin
Chief Executive Officer
L.A. Care Health Plan
Thomas D. Gordon
Chairman of the Board
DSL Construction Corporation
Retired Executive Vice President
Cedars-Sinai Medical Network
Richard B. Jacobs
Immediate Past Executive Vice President
Health System Development
Cedars-Sinai
2025 Honorary Tribute Committee
José Avalos, MD
Chair, Board of Directors
AltaMed Health Services
Ron Brookmeyer, PhD
Dean & Distinguished Professor of Biostatistics
UCLA Fielding School of Public Health
Carmela Coyle
President & Chief Executive Officer
California Hospital Association
Bryan Croft
Executive Vice President, Hospital Operations, & Chief Operating Officer
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
David Feinberg, MD
Chairman
Oracle Health
George Greene, Esq.
President & Chief Executive Officer
Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC)
Atul Grover, MD, PhD, FACP, FCCP Executive Director
AAMC Research and Action Institute; Clinical Professor of Medicine
George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Rod Hanners
Chief Executive Officer
Keck Medicine of USC
Keith Hobbs, MBA
President & Chief Executive Officer
Torrance Memorial Medical Center
Sachin Jain, MD, MBA President & Chief Executive Officer
SCAN Group and SCAN Health Plan
Bernie Klein, MD, MBA
Chief Executive
Providence Holy Cross Medical Center
Robert Margolis, MD
Former Managing Partner (Retired)
Chief Executive Officer Emeritus
Healthcare Partners
Jill Martin
Executive Vice President Cedars Sinai Medical Network
Dr. Shlomo Melmed
Executive Vice President, Medicine and Health Sciences, and Dean of the Medical Faculty
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Thomas Mone
Chief Executive Officer (Retired)
OneLegacy
Lori J. Morgan, MD, MBA
President & Chief Executive Officer
Huntington Health
George L. Pla
Founder, President & Chief Executive Officer
Cordoba Corporation
Rick Pollack
President & Chief Executive Officer
American Hospital Association
Jack Schlosser
Founder & Principal
Desert Vista Advisors
Steven D. Shapiro, MD
Senior Vice President for Health Affairs
USC Health
Peter Slavin, MD
President & Chief Executive Officer
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Health System
Arthur M. Southam, MD, MBA, MPH
Board of Directors
SCAN Health Plan and Foundation
Easterseals Southern California
Johnese Spisso, MPA
President
UCLA Health
Chief Executive Officer
UCLA Hospital System
Associate Vice Chancellor
UCLA Health Sciences
Julie Sprengel
President & Chief Executive Officer
CommonSpirit Health California Region
Gustavo Valdespino
President & Chief Executive Officer
Valley Presbyterian Hospital
Paul S. Viviano
President & Chief Executive Officer
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
Erik G. Wexler
President & Chief Operating Officer
Providence
David Wrigley
Executive Vice President, Finance, and Chief Financial Officer
Cedars-Sinai Health System
Thomas F. Zenty III
Chief Operating Officer (Retired)
University Hospitals, Cleveland
Transforming Healthcare with Scalable, Real-World Solutions
At Partners in Care Foundation, we turn strategy into execution using data and real-world insights to develop forward-looking care models that close critical gaps and deliver measurable value. From reducing preventable hospital use to strengthening continuity of care and addressing daily factors that impact recovery, we help healthcare organizations build smarter, more responsive systems.
Powered by AI-enabled platforms, workforce innovation, and cross-sector partnerships, our solutions reach into the home and community—addressing the daily challenges and functional needs that influence recovery, reduce risk, and support long-term health.
Key Milestones for 2025
AI-Enhanced HomeMeds℠ Platform
Launching this year, our next-generation medication safety platform reduces transcription errors, cuts assessment time in half, and enables earlier intervention—accelerating risk detection at scale.
Workforce Development Training Center
Our statewide training center equips new and existing CHWs with tools to manage complex patient needs, navigate trauma-informed care, and reduce burnout. Offered in English and Spanish, the program supports a more resilient, effective CHW workforce across all care settings.
Scaling the Community Care HUB
Recognized as California’s leading Community Care HUB model, our framework is being adopted by health systems, health plans, and public agencies—including Kaiser Permanente and Blue Shield of California— to embed coordinated community care into value-based delivery.
DIAMOND LEVEL Sponsors
“I didn’t need another appointment. I needed someone to sit with me while I figured out how to live again. Partners gave me that time— and that dignity.”
– Enhanced Care Management (ECM) Member
Inside Our Inaugural Board Field Day THE POWER OF SHOWING UP
There’s something transformative about being there—in person, in the moment, alongside the people doing the work. This spring, our Board of Directors stepped out of the boardroom and into the field for our first-ever Board Field Day.
They joined Partners’ care managers on home visits, witnessing the deep relationships that form the core of our mission. What they saw wasn’t just service delivery—it was trust, humanity, and hope. They met participants not defined by illness, but by who they were and who they still aspire to be.
One board member reflected, “Reading about impact is one thing— witnessing the strength and humanity behind each story is another.”
Another shared, “Being in the home reveals what clinical visits can’t— the everyday barriers and unspoken challenges people face.”
For our care coordinators, the opportunity to share their work firsthand was deeply meaningful. It highlighted the skill and compassion they bring each day—and strengthened the connection between our talented workforce and the board members who champion their impact.
The day left us all with a shared truth: real impact starts with presence. When leadership shows up, it deepens understanding, strengthens connection, and inspires action.
We are grateful to our board for showing up fully—and to our staff for making that experience possible.
“Being
in the home reveals what clinical visits can’t the everyday barriers and unspoken challenges people face.”
“Reading about impact is one thing— witnessing the strength and humanity behind each story is another.”
Proven Results
Care Transitions with Providence Health Systems
Delivered a 50%+ reduction in hospital readmissions — earning national recognition as one of CMS Innovation Center’s top-performing models
entage
The percentage has declined steadily from the baseline of 18.3% to 9% in 2024.
HomeMeds—California Contracts (Blue Shield, Providence, and Others)
Prevented 1,178 emergency visits and 102 hospital admissions through in-home, pharmacist-led medication safety reviews
Addressed complex medication risks and strengthened post-discharge safety for high-risk patients
Across Partnerships
Care Transitions with UCLA Health
Since 2019, connected more than 9,500 individuals to essential resources—addressing medication safety, fall risk, and daily living needs
Community Wellness— Chronic Disease
Self-Management
Program (CDSMP)
with UniteHere Health Plan
88% of participants reported improved overall health
Clinical markers improved—lower A1C, BMI, and blood pressure
Depression and pain scores reduced by nearly 50%, supporting better daily functioning and self-management
Partners in Care Foundation 2025 Board of Councilors
Co-Chairs
Lloyd Bookman, JD
Founding Partner
Hooper, Lundy & Bookman, PC
Robert W. Lundy, Jr., JD
Founding Partner
Hooper, Lundy & Bookman, PC
Members
Barry Arbuckle, PhD
President & Chief Executive Officer MemorialCare Health System
Elaine Batchlor, MD, MPH
Chief Executive Officer
MLK Community Healthcare & MLK Community Hospital
Kathleen Brown, JD Partner
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP
Carmela Coyle
President & Chief Executive Officer
California Hospital Association
Donald Crane, JD Healthcare Advocacy
Cástulo de la Rocha
President & Chief Executive Officer
AltaMed Health Services Corporation
Lloyd H. Dean
Chief Executive Officer Emeritus
Dignity Health and CommonSpirit
Health
Diana Dooley
Retired
David Feinberg, MD, MBA Chairman
Oracle Health
George Halvorson Chair & Chief Executive Officer
Institute for InterGroup Understanding
Rod Hochman, MD
President & Chief Executive Officer
Providence St. Joseph Health
Thomas Jackiewicz, MPH President
University of Chicago Medical Center
Sachin H. Jain, MD, MBA, FACP
President & Chief Executive Officer
SCAN Group & SCAN Health Plan
Howard Kahn Chair
Physicians for a Healthy California
Francine Kaufman, MD Chief Medical Officer Senseonics
Hyong (Ken) Kim, MD Chief Executive Officer Giatros Health
Robert Margolis, MD Chief Executive Officer Emeritus HealthCare Partners
J. Mario Molina, MD Board Chair & Co-Founder United States of Care
Richard Norling Senior Fellow
Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI)
Thomas Priselac
President & Chief Executive Officer
Emeritus
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Health System
Robert K. Ross, MD
President & Chief Executive Officer
Emeritus
The California Endowment
Martha Santana-Chin
Chief Executive Officer
L.A. Care Health Plan
Arthur M. Southam, MD, MBA, MPH
Board of Directors
SCAN Health Plan and Foundation
Easterseals Southern California
Johnese Spisso, RN, MPA
President
UCLA Health, Chief Executive Officer
UCLA Hospital System, Associate Vice Chancellor
UCLA Health Sciences
Gustavo Valdespino
President & Chief Executive Officer
Valley Presbyterian Hospital
Steve Valentine
President
Valentine Health Advisers
Partner
Guidehouse Consulting
Chris D. Van Gorder, FACHE
President & Chief Executive Officer
Scripps Health
Paul S. Viviano
President & Chief Executive Officer
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
James R. West System President & Chief Executive Officer
PIH Health
In Memoriam
C. Duane Dauner Special Adviser, Former President/ Chief Executive Officer California Hospital Association
Yoshi Honkawa Consultant Cedars-Sinai
Leeba Lessin Former President CareMore
James E. Ludlam, JD Of Counsel Musick, Peeler & Garrett
Allen Mathies, MD
Former Chief Executive Officer & President Emeritus Huntington Hospital
Paul Torrens, MD, MPH
Professor Emeritus
UCLA Fielding School of Public Health
Robert Tranquada, MD
Professor Emeritus
University of Southern California
Partners in Care Foundation
Sincerely Thanks Our 2024/2025 Supporters
Supporters $5,000 and above
Afya & HubMD
Sajid & Elizabeth Ahmed
Alfred E. Mann Charities Inc.
AltaMed Health Services
American Hospital Association
America’s Physician Groups
Anonymous
Anthem Blue Cross
Archstone Foundation
ArentFox Schiff LLP
Beverly Hills Fire Department Foundation
Blue Butterfly Hospice, Inc.
Blue Shield of California Promise
Health Plan
BluePath Health
Cain Brothers
Cairns Health
CalGrows
California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
California Governor and State
Legislature through the California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS)
California Health and Human Services
California Healthcare Foundation
California Primary Care Association
California Wellness Foundation
Cedars-Sinai
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
COPE Health Solutions
County of Los Angeles Aging and Disabilities Department
Cathi Cunningham
Deloitte
Department of Health Care Service
Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD)
Amir Desai
Desert Vista Advisors
Dignity Health and CommonSpirit Health
Emanate Health
Episcopal Communities & Services
Marta Fernandez
FindHelp
Richard & Nancy Flores
Gaudineer Family
G.J. Sullivan Co Reinsurance
Patricia Glaser and Glaser Weil
Good Hope Medical Foundation
Eileen Goodis Strom and Dr. Eric Strom
Edna & Tom Gordon and the Don Levin Trust
Frances Hanckel, Sc.D.
Health Care LA IPA & Medpoint
Management
Health Net
Hooper, Lundy & Bookman
Huntington Health
Infinite Computer Solution
Isaacson, Miller
Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell LLP
Jewish Community Foundation
Gordon M. Johnson & Barbara Schnell
Kaiser Permanente
Keck Medicine of USC
KeyGroup
Katherine A. Kirchhoff
L.A. Care Health Plan
Los Angeles City Department of Aging (LADOA)
Los Angeles Water & Power Employee Association, Inc.
Robert W. Lundy, JD and Randi Lundy
Manifest MedEx
Margaret A. Cargill Foundation
McDermott Will & Emery
McKinsey & Company
MDX Hawaii
MemorialCare
Molina Healthcare
National Council on Aging’s Center for Benefits Access (NCOA)
NCOA ACL Innovation Lab
Fabian Nunez
Stephen T. O’Dell
Optum
Pipeline Health System
Alfred & Dawn Poirier
Preferred IPA of California
Providence
Public Consulting
RBB Architects Inc.
Ruby Family Foundation
Wendy & Ken* Ruby
SCAN Group and SCAN Health Plan
Jack & Carissa Schlosser
Shelter Partnership
John M. Simmons
June Simmons & Jody Dunn
Spencer Stuart
Stanford Impact Labs
Michael L. Steinberg, MD and Eve Kurtin*
Gerald & Wendy Sullivan
TELACU and TELACU Residential Management
The Ahmanson Foundation
The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation
UCLA Health
USAging
Valley Presbyterian Hospital
Whittier Trust
WISE Healthcare
We salute the inaugural members of the Partners in Legacy Society:
Michael* and Lourdes* Collins
Paul Craig, JD & Mary Jo Webb
Richard & Nancy Flores
Genevieve Goetz
Frances Hanckel, Sc.D.
Leeba Lessin*
June Simmons & Jody Dunn
Gerald & Wendy Sullivan
*In Memoriam
RUBY LEVEL Sponsors
“Partners did more than for me than just speak my language— they understood my fears, my culture, my story. For the first time, I felt like healthcare was meant for me too.”
– Care Transitions Participant, Recently Discharged from Hospital
RUBY SPONSOR
RUBY SPONSOR
Partners in Care Foundation’s Community Care HUB
Adopted
“This isn’t a referral network—it’s a fully integrated delivery system designed to close care gaps, improve outcomes, and operate with the accountability healthcare demands.” – June Simmons
A Proven Model for Impact
Partners in Care Foundation has long led the integration of health and community care through its Community Care HUB model. Built for scale and rooted in trust, the HUB connects health plans and systems with a statewide network of more than 100 communitybased organizations —each deeply embedded in their communities and equipped to address local needs with insight and care tailored to the communities they serve.
While these organizations deliver a skilled workforce for Enhanced Care Management (ECM) and Community Supports, Partners provides the infrastructure behind them—managing contracting, credentialing, training, IT integration, compliance, billing, and reporting—so they can focus on what they do best: serving people.
A standout example is the collaboration between Molina Health Plan, MEND Poverty, and Partners. As Molina expanded ECM under CalAIM, MEND used the HUB to go beyond food assistance— leveraging Partners’ contracts and systems to connect participants with housing, transportation, childcare, and more. Partners handled the administrative lift, resulting in measurable improvements in coordination, engagement, and outcomes.
Standing up or managing a HUB takes more than coordination— it requires infrastructure, alignment, and long-term investment. Partners brings all three. In an increasingly complex care environment, Partners HUB offers a business-smart, outcomes-driven solution— making local care scalable, sustainable, and effective.
Vision & Excellence in Healthcare Leadership Award Past Honorees
2024 Gustavo Valdespino
With over 40 years of hospital management experience, Gustavo Valdespino was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Valley Presbyterian Hospital in September 2009 where he has provided transforming results. Prior to joining Valley Presbyterian Hospital, his roles included Senior Vice President of Operations for Tenet Health Corporation’s Southern California region, President and Chief Executive Officer of St. Vincent Medical Center and CEO of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Orange County.
2023
Johnese Spisso, RN, MPA
Johnese Spisso, RN, MPA was honored as President of UCLA Health, CEO of UCLA Hospital System, and Associate Vice Chancellor of UCLA Health Sciences. Spisso joined UCLA in 2016 and is responsible for all aspects of the health system and the regional outreach strategy in the local, state, national and international programs.
2022
Arthur M. Southam, MD
Arthur M. Southam, MD was honored as Executive Vice President Health Plan Operations and Chief Growth Officer of Kaiser Permanente. Dr. Southam joined Kaiser Permanente in 2001 and had national responsibility for Health Plan marketing, sales, service, and administrative activities that supported growth and care.
2021
Paul S. Viviano
Paul S. Viviano was honored as President and CEO of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). As a major healthcare leader and prominent advocate of child health, Mr. Viviano joined CHLA in 2015 and serves as a member of its Board of Directors and Board of Trustees.
2019
Elaine Batchlor, MD, MPH
Elaine Batchlor, MD, MPH, was honored as the CEO of MLK Community Healthcare, a CMS 5-star-rated hospital and health system that provides quality care to 1.3 million residents of the medically underserved community of South Los Angeles. Dr. Batchlor has devoted her career to reducing health disparities and expanding healthcare quality and access for the most vulnerable.
2018
Diana S. Dooley
Diana S. Dooley was honored as the Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency by Governor Jerry Brown at the beginning of his term in 2011. She used federal law, together with state legislative and administrative actions, to make improvements in the quality of healthcare delivery.
2017
Rod Hochman, MD
Rod Hochman, MD, was honored as President and CEO of Providence. Dr. Hochman is responsible for leading the seven-state health system, ensuring access to high-quality, compassionate care is available in each of the communities Providence serves.
2016
Don Crane, JD
Don Crane was honored as President and CEO of America’s Physician Groups (APG), the nation’s only professional association exclusively representing capitated, coordinated care organizations. Under Mr. Crane’s leadership, APG became a leading voice in federal and California advocacy.
2015
Robert Margolis, MD
Robert Margolis, MD, was honored as Co-Chairman of the Board, DaVita HealthCare Partners and CEO Emeritus of HealthCare Partners, LLC. Dr. Margolis is a much sought-after spokesperson because of his vast experience in integrated delivery systems and physician practice management.
2014 Leeba Lessin
In Memoriam
Leeba Lessin was honored for her role as Senior Vice President of WellPoint and President of its affiliated Medicare businesses, serving more than two million members through Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and Prescription Drug Plans.
2013
Barry Arbuckle, Ph.D.
Barry Arbuckle, PhD was honored as President and CEO of MemorialCare, a leading Southern California non-profit integrated healthcare system with over 200 sites of care. Under Dr. Arbuckle’s leadership, MemorialCare has experienced unprecedented growth and financial performance. .
2012
David T. Feinberg, MD, MBA
Dr. Feinberg was honored as President of UCLA Health System. Dr. David Feinberg oversaw all aspects of the prestigious operation, including Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, and UCLA Medical, Santa Monica.
2011
Howard A. Kahn
Howard Kahn was honored as the CEO of L.A. Care Health Plan, the largest public health plan in America. Mr. Kahn has served in leadership positions creating initiatives, coalitions, and policies.
2010
Lloyd A. Bookman, JD
Lloyd A. Bookman, JD was honored as Co-founder and Managing Partner of Hooper, Lundy and Bookman, PC. Mr. Bookman represents healthcare providers in complex regulatory, reimbursement, and transactional matters.
2010
Robert W. Lundy, Jr., JD
Robert W. Lundy, Jr., JD was honored as Co-founder and Managing Partner of Hooper, Lundy and Bookman, PC, the largest law firm in the country dedicated solely to the representation of healthcare providers and suppliers.
2009
Richard A. Norling
Richard A. Norling was honored because of his work as a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement.
2008
George C. Halvorson
George C. Halvorson was honored as Chairman and CEO of Kaiser Permanente. Mr. Halvorson headed the nation’s largest non-profit health plan and hospital system, serving more than 9 million members and generating about $50 billion in annual revenue.
2007
Lloyd H. Dean
Lloyd H. Dean was honored for his work as President and CEO of CommonSpirit Health (formerly known as Dignity Health and Catholic Healthcare West), an integrated not-for-profit healthcare system in three western states.
2006
Francine Kaufman, MD
Francine Kaufman, MD was honored as a Distinguished Professor Emerita of Pediatrics at the Keck School of Medicine and the Annenberg School of Communications at USC..
2005
Thomas M. Priselac
Thomas M. Priselac was honored as President and CEO of Cedars-Sinai Health System. Mr. Priselac is an author and invited speaker on a variety of contemporary issues facing the healthcare field today.
2004 C. Duane Dauner
In Memoriam
C. Duane Dauner was honored as President and CEO of the California Hospital Association. A nationally known leader on health issues, Duane helped California lead the nation in innovative care delivery, quality improvement, and payment programs.
2003
Robert E. Tranquada, MD
In Memoriam
Robert E. Tranquada, MD was honored for his leadership that initiated and shaped many healthcare organizations. He served on many local and national healthcare charities, higher education, and civic boards, and authored numerous medical and policy articles.
2002
James E. Ludlam, JD
In Memoriam
Mr. Ludlam was honored and recognized as one of the founders of healthcare law who helped shape California’s healthcare environment.
2001 Yoshi Honkawa In Memoriam
Mr. Honkawa was honored for his many years as Vice President, Government and Industry Relations, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, following a long and distinguished career in healthcare administration.
2000
Dr. Allen Mathies In Memoriam and Weta Mathies
The Mathies Award was named in honor of this couple’s distinguished careers and Dr. Mathies’ remarkable leadership of the Visiting Nurse Association of Los Angeles (VNA-LA) and the founding Board of Partners in Care Foundation.
Champion for Health Award Past Honorees
2024
Martha Santana-Chin
With an 11-year tenure at Health Net, a Centene company, Martha Santana-Chin takes pride in her first-hand understanding of the struggles faced by low-income communities. She has consistently been at the forefront of healthcare innovation, playing pivotal leadership roles in every stage of California’s managed care journey focused on service low-income populations. Most recently she has addressed the whole-person care by integrating medical, behavioral, and social sciences.
2022
Sachin H. Jain, MD
Sachin H. Jain, MD was honored as President and CEO of SCAN Group and Health Plan, where he is charged with leading the organization’s growth, diversification, and emerging efforts to reduce healthcare disparities. Under Dr. Jain’s leadership, SCAN’s revenues topped $3.4B and the organization now serves 220,000 patients.
2014
James R. West
James R. West was honored as the President and CEO of PIH Health, an integrated delivery system comprised of two hospitals, 22 medical offices, home health services, a medical foundation, and an independent physician association.
2011
Molina Family & Molina Family Healthcare, Inc.
Molina Healthcare began in 1980 as a small medical clinic in Long Beach, California. As an emergency room (ER) physician, C. David Molina, MD saw the need for an alternative to going to the ER.
continued
2010
Patrick Soon-Shiong, MD
Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong was honored as a physician, surgeon, and scientist. He pioneered treatments for both diabetes and cancer, publishing over 100 scientific papers, and holds 50 US patents on groundbreaking advancements across a myriad of fields.
2006
Kathleen Brown
Kathleen Brown was honored as the former Treasurer of the State of California and Board member of the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Lifetime Achievement Award Past Honorees
2023
Robert K. Ross, MD
Robert K. Ross, MD, was honored as President and CEO of The California Endowment, a private, statewide health foundation established in 1996. During his tenure, Dr. Ross provided leadership in supporting the vision of underserved communities and grassroots leaders for a healthier California and a healthier America.
2021
Paul Torrens, MD, MPH
In Memoriam
Paul Torrens, MD, was honored as Professor Emeritus of Health Policy and Management at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health (FSPH), and as Founder of the Paul Torrens Health Forum at UCLA. In his more than 40 years at FSPH, Dr. Torrens patiently guided, mentored and advised generations of students, helping shape many distinguished careers in public health.
2018
C. Duane Dauner
In Memoriam
C. Duane Dauner was honored for his more than 50-year career in the healthcare field as a visionary and widely respected national leader who was dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all Americans.
PLATINUM LEVEL Sponsors
“When I had nothing left— no food, no family, no safety net—
Partners stepped in.
A grocery card, a warm blanket, and someone who cared.
It wasn’t charity. It was humanity.”
– Urgent Needs Fund Recipient
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Thank you, Partners in Legacy Society Members
A legacy commitment through a planned gift ensures that Partners in Care Foundation can continue to fulfill its mission of aligning community care and healthcare. By by addressing the non-clinical drivers of health and striving to eliminate equity disparities, these gifts empower us to serve older adults and children with complex health needs.
Planned gifts offer a meaningful way for supporters to make a lasting impact, often providing tax benefits for the donor. Planned gifts can be in various forms—cash, property, stock, or retirement accounts—and it allows donors to contribute according to their personal financial situation. By creating a planned gift, you become a valued member of the Partners in Legacy Society and will receive exclusive invitations to special events, be recognized on our website and in our publications, and enjoy opportunities to connect with fellow members.
To ensure that your planned gift to Partners in Care Foundation is properly structured, please consult with your legal and/or financial advisor. If you and your legal counsel would like more information about how you can support our work and create a lasting impact, please contact the Development Team at development@picf.org.
We salute the inaugural members of the Partners in Legacy Society:
• Michael* and Lourdes* Collins
• Paul Craig, JD & Mary Jo Webb
• Richard & Nancy Flores
• Genevieve Goetz
• Frances Hanckel, Sc.D.
• Leeba Lessin*
• June Simmons & Jody Dunn
• Gerald & Wendy Sullivan
*In Memoriam
Paul Craig, JD & Mary Jo Webb
Richard & Nancy Flores
Genevieve Goetz
Frances Hanckel, Sc.D.
June Simmons & Jody Dunn
Gerald & Wendy Sullivan
Donor Spotlight: A Life of Leadership and Legacy Paul Craig and Mary Jo Webb Partners in Legacy Society Members
Paul began as a nurse before attending law school in Chicago and transitioning into medical malpractice law, and subsequently serving in executive leadership roles across a wide range of health system departments—including human resources, patient experience, telemedicine, community benefit, and government relations— his career exemplifies a steadfast commitment to the protection and advancement of others. Guided by compassion, integrity, and a profound sense of responsibility, he now dedicates his efforts to philanthropic endeavors focused on improving healthcare outcomes and broadening access for underserved communities.
Alongside his wife Mary Jo, a celebrated nurse who once had an entire day proclaimed in her honor by the City of San Francisco, he’s built a life centered around healthcare, community, and service.
It was through a former colleague that he first attended a Partners in Care Foundation Tribute Dinner in 2015. That evening, seated next to Jamey Edwards current board member then CEO of Cloudbreak Health, the conversation sparked something deeper. “I was immediately drawn to the mission culturally competent care, support for the vulnerable, and a focus on health beyond the hospital.” What followed was involvement as a board member and advocate.
That commitment led Paul and Mary Jo to join the Partners in Legacy Society through a planned gift. “I learned about estate giving during my time as a hospital COO. What struck me was how powerful it is when the board itself invests in the future of an organization. It sends a message: we believe in this mission.”
For him, legacy giving isn’t just about dollars—it’s about inspiring others. “When your family sees an organization in your estate plan, it starts a conversation. It shows what matters to you. That can have a ripple effect.”
His favorite moment as a board member? Participating in a Board Field Day, where he accompanied a care coordinator on a home visit to an elderly individual. “That one-on-one connections— it’s everything. It reminded me why I started in this work. Partners sees the big picture, but it also never forgets the individual.”
Outside of his work advocating for Partners, Paul finds fulfillment in cycling, sailing, and reflecting on a lifetime of service alongside his wife, Mary Jo—herself a distinguished healthcare leader. His guiding principles remain steadfast: compassion, community, and a dedication to enduring impact.
When asked what inspires him most about Partners, he says: “The impact of Partners work—ensuring that older adults can receive the care and support they need to live at home—is powerful. It’s about preserving dignity, not just delivering services.”
GOLD LEVEL Sponsors
“Partners didn’t just connect me to care— they reconnected me to myself. I remembered I’m not a burden. I’m a person who matters.”
– Care Transitions Participant, Post-Surgery Recovery
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Congratulations, Cástulo!
So proud to see my dear friend Cástulo receiving the Vision and Excellence in Healthcare Leadership Award. Your lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and community health has uplifted countless lives. Your passion, integrity, and unwavering leadership continue to inspire all of us.
It’s an honor to celebrate you and this well-deserved recognition.
Fabian Nunez
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Partners in Care Foundation Leading to Advance Value-Based Care and Promote Whole Person Health
Co-Designing a Social Care Delivery System
Since forming in early 2022, the Partnership to Align Social Care (Partnership) has established a collaborative that brings together multiple stakeholders to develop and disseminate resources to advance alignment between the health and social care ecosystems. The Partnership convenes leaders from across the social care and healthcare sectors to co-design and promote scalable, sustainable, and equitable partnerships between healthcare entities and social care providers that are organized into community care networks led by community care hubs (CCHs).
Partners in Care
Foundation President and CEO, June Simmons, has served as Co-Chair of this innovative coalition since its inception in 2022. In coordination with Co-Chair, Tim McNeill, CEO of Freedmen’s Health Consulting, they lead the Partnership, which serves an instrumental role in advancing community care hubs nationally. Partnership stakeholders continue to build upon and promote resources that reflect critical cross sector perspective and input to inform ongoing infrastructure development, contracting, and payment opportunities among health and social care providers. According to June Simmons, “Even in rapidly evolving and uncertain policy and payment environments, the Partnership to Align Social Care reflects the unique and collective commitment of its
stakeholders to inform and shape responsive, effective, and efficient systems alignment to promote positive health outcomes and promote whole person care.”
Leading the Way on Aligning Health and Social Care
The Partnership works to bridge the divide between healthcare systems and Community Based Organizations (CBOs) through active coordination and collaboration on common issues and resources.
Achieving this necessitates intentional co-development of shared structures that enable collaboration and coordination to provide quality, value-based care. The Partnership has also served a key role in enabling reimbursement and payment opportunities for organizations that address non-medical drivers of health.
Moving forward, the Partnership will continue to build resources for health and social care ecosystem stakeholders; advance payment mechanisms through implementation resources; identify and elevate sustainable financing models, multi-stakeholder accountability efforts, and a shared services strategy that supports efficiency and sustainability among existing and emerging CCHs.
To learn more and access Partnership resources, visit the website: https://partnership2asc.org
To sign up for the Partnership’s email list contact Autumn Campbell at: acampbell@partnership2asc.org
Smarter Medication Safety Starts at Home
Introducing HomeMeds℠ AI-Enhanced Platform
Now 2x Faster with Unmatched Accuracy
HomeMeds is a proven, AI-powered comprehensive medication inventory conducted in the home by a trained, community-based care staff. It goes beyond prescriptions to also uncover other real risks that are often missed:
• Drug interactions and duplicate therapies
• Conflicts with herbal and OTC products
• Barriers to care plan adherence
• Cognitive, safety, environment and lifestyle risks
Now enhanced with artificial intelligence, HomeMeds cuts assessment time in half delivering faster, smarter insights that enable early intervention and better care planning across health systems, plans, and provider networks.
Proven Impact:
• Up to 66% reduction in hospital readmissions
• Over 1,100 emergency visits avoided
• 24% decrease in ER use within 30 days
• 55% of patients had a clinically significant medication-related issue identified and addressed
• Sustained improvements in medication safety and adherence
HomeMeds℠ delivers what value-based care demands: real-world results, at scale.
Scan the QR code to learn more or visit www.picf.org/homemeds
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“CHW training at Partners gave me more than skills— it gave me balance.
I learned how to care deeply, advocate fiercely, and still come home with something left for myself.”
– CHW Workforce Graduate
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Workforce Development A Smarter Workforce Strategy for a Changing Healthcare Landscape
Today’s healthcare system is under pressure—from growing demand to workforce shortages to the increasing need for comprehensive care that extends beyond traditional hospital and medical settings. To meet this moment, organizations need a new kind of workforce—people who understand their communities and can build trust where it matters most .
At Partners in Care Foundation, we’re meeting the moment with a training solution designed to strengthen care where it begins— in the community.
Our Workforce Development Training Center offers a practical, scalable way for health organizations to enhance their Community Health Worker (CHW) teams. CHWs extend the impact of traditional healthcare by helping individuals access food, transportation, housing, and services—essential elements that influence health but often fall outside the medical system.
Partners’ CHW training program is designed for real-world readiness:
Aligned with California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) standards and national CHW competencies
Delivered fully online-one of California’s only CHW training program offered in English and Spanish
Streamlined for completion in 7 weeks
Backed by personalized coaching and progress tracking
Includes Supervisor training to strengthen CHW leadership and infrastructure
Whether you’re expanding Enhanced Care Management, launching Community Support services, or filling urgent workforce gaps, Partners is your go-to resource to build and train the team you need.
Let’s build a stronger care system—together.
TrainingSupport@picf.org
BRONZE LEVEL Sponsors
“I kept getting dizzy and didn’t know why. Partners reviewed my medications and found I was taking two that should never be combined. That visit didn’t just clear up my symptoms— it may have saved my life.”
– HomeMeds Participant
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Leading Change —
Locally and Nationally
• As national co-leaders of the Partnership to Align Social Care, we are advancing how community care integrates into healthcare operations nationwide.
• In Los Angeles, we co-lead the Regional Coordinating Council with the Department of Aging and Disabilities to align cross-sector strategies to improve outcomes.
• As co-chairs of the Southern California Social Care Collaborative, we’re driving CalAIM implementation and building infrastructure to reach the 99% of eligible members still disconnected from vital support.