The Desert Healthcare District Board of Directors has announced a new president to lead the organization in 2026. The annual Board officer elections resulted in a leadership change with Secretary Kimberly Barraza taking on the duties of president, a role most recently held by Carole Rogers.
President Barraza joined the Board in November 2022, when she was elected to a four-year term. She is a resident of the District’s Zone 6, which encompasses most of Indio and Coachella.
She currently serves on the Program Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee, and as chair of the Legislative Policy Committee. One of her first duties as president will be to appoint fellow Board Directors to various committees.
“I am honored to serve as Board President of the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation,” President Barraza said in a written statement. “Our region continues to face significant health challenges, and this role comes with a responsibility to lead with transparency, collaboration, and a deep commitment to equity. I look forward to working alongside my fellow Board members, staff, and community partners to strengthen access to care, invest in prevention, and ensure our resources are used in ways that truly improve health outcomes for the residents of the Coachella Valley.”
Completing the Board leadership for 2026, Directors Greg Rodriguez (Zone 1) and Dr. Daniel Logsdon (Zone 3) will continue as vice-president and treasurer, respectively. And Director Leticia DeLara (Zone 7), a former Board president, will serve as secretary.
The seven-member Board also includes Carole Rogers (Zone 2) and Evett PerezGil (Zone 4). Following the resignation of Director Arthur Shorr on November 30, the Board’s Zone 5 seat is currently vacant. However, applicants are being accepted until 5 p.m. Jan. 5.
“It is an exciting time for the Healthcare District, as we enter 2026 and continue our strategic planning process, which will help determine our Board and staff priorities for the next several years,” said District CEO Chris Christensen. “We look forward to supporting President Barraza and the entire Board as we work together to advance community wellness in the Coachella Valley.”
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 among the largest funders in the valley. These funds are used to help residents access vital resources, including primary and behavioral healthcare.
