A new director has joined the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation Board on January 8 following six applicant interviews during a special Board meeting in Palm Springs.
Anyse Smith was unanimously appointed and sworn in as the District’s zone five representative, occupying the seat vacated by Arthur Shorr, who resigned on Nov. 30.
“We were fortunate to have six exceptional applicants, each bringing a demonstrated commitment to improving the Coachella Valley, and we thank all who put themselves forward for consideration,” Board President Kimberly Barraza said. “Anyse Smith emerged as an outstanding candidate based on her legal background, lived experience, dedication to service, and collaborative work with community partners. I look forward to serving alongside Director Smith as the Board moves into its next phase of strategic planning and strengthens the District’s role in advancing health and wellness throughout the region.”
Smith is a Palm Desert resident and staff attorney at Starting Over Inc., a nonprofit housing and legal aid provider working with unhoused people. In addition, she brings to the Board vast experience supporting local nonprofit organizations and agencies.
“The Board has important and transformative work ahead,” Smith said in an email Friday. “I’m most looking forward to contributing to the District’s strategic efforts to expand access to programs and services, particularly for disadvantaged communities, so that everyone can achieve optimal health, regardless of where they live or their circumstances.”
Prior to her current job, Smith was employed as an associate attorney with Pacheco and Neach PC, program assistant II and management analyst with Coachella Valley Association of Governments, and program administrative assistant and housing manager at the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission (CVRM).
After her appointment and swearing-in, Smith was congratulated by President Barraza, Vice-President Greg Rodriguez, Secretary Leticia De Lara, Carole Rogers, Evett PerezGil, and Treasurer Dr. Dan Logsdon who participated virtually.
“I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and committed to serving with integrity, accountability, and a strong focus on equitable health outcomes for the Coachella Valley,” Smith said Friday.
All Board meetings, unless stated otherwise, are open to the public. The schedule of upcoming Board activity can be found by clicking here.
The Desert Healthcare District is a local government agency formed in 1948. Its mission is to achieve optimal health at all stages of life for all District residents. The District includes more than 400,000 residents and encompasses the entire Coachella Valley. The District and Desert Healthcare Foundation, together, are one of the largest funders in the valley. These funds are used to assist residents, especially the underserved, in accessing vitally needed resources, such as primary and behavioral healthcare.
