FALL 2022
Introducing Shawn Fincher, our new Executive Director In early June, the Whatcom Hospice Foundation board and staff were thrilled to welcome Shawn Fincher as our new Executive Director. Shawn joins us after serving for six years as Director of Development at the Providence Heart Institute in Portland, Oregon. Prior to that, he worked for 20 years in fund development for higher education. From 2005 to 2012, he served as Director of Development at the University of Oregon, helping to lead an $850 million capital campaign. “Shawn is a forward thinker with a true passion for philanthropy,” said Anne Rasmussen, PeaceHealth System Chief Development Officer and Vice President of Philanthropy. “He brings to PeaceHealth a remarkable depth and breadth of experience and a proven record of leadership and collaboration. We are delighted he’s decided to join us!” Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Shawn attended Indiana University, where he earned his Masters Degree in Public
“The passison of the Whatcom Hospice staff, volunteers, and families who have used the services makes it unmistakably evident that the Whatcom Hospice program is a great philanthropic investment for our community,” he continued.
Administration. He is enjoying getting settled in Bellingham with his wife, 7 year-old son, and rambunctious 11 month-old Belgian Tervuren puppy. An avid road cyclist, Shawn recently completed a 5-day, 350-mile bike ride through Montana. In the winter, he enjoys cross-country skiing. He looks forward to checking out Mount Baker and other nearby venues for the sport. Shawn says he has been impressed by his introduction to Bellingham. “It has been great meeting donors and community members, and working with the wonderful Whatcom Hospice Foundation Board of Directors,” he said.
The Whatcom Hospice Foundation Board of Directors is excited to have the benefit of Shawn’s expertise as they consider the opportunities associated with their recent acquisition of 8 acres adjacent to the current Whatcom Hospice Campus — a purchase made possible by one extraordinarily generous anonymous donor. “Shawn is helping us think through how to best utilize the newly acquired property,” said Whatcom Hospice Board President, David Yorkston. “As we explore the possibility of expanding our hospice facility footprint to better serve our community, we remain committed to maintaining the serene surroundings that bring comfort to those at their end of life, and to their families.”