Health Foundation Of Central MA Elects First Female Board Chair

WORCESTER, MA — A woman has been named to lead The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts' Board of Directors for the first time in the organization's history.

Christie L. Hager will serve as chair of The Health Foundation's Board of Directors, the organization announced on Monday. This marks the first time a woman was elected to that role in the organization's 27-year history.

The Worcester-based organization works to improve the health of those who live or work in Central Massachusetts. It has granted over $62 million to 250 organizations since it launched in 1999.

Hager brings a long career in public health to this role. Under President Barack Obama, she served as the regional director for New England at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. During that time, she oversaw the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in the region.

She has also served in senior roles at MassHealth within the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services and currently holds a faculty appointment at UMass Chan Medical School.

Hager holds a law degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law, a master's degree from the Boston University School of Public Health and a bachelor's degree from Smith College.

“Ms. Hager has been a strong voice on our board since 2020, and I am thrilled that she is stepping into the role of chair,” said Amie Shei, president and CEO of The Health Foundation, in a news release. “Her demonstrated leadership in state and federal health policy will continue to provide us with tremendous insights and support as we support initiatives to improve health in Central Massachusetts.”

The appointment comes as The Health Foundation has elected an all-female Executive Committee for the first time ever. In addition to the Hager serving as Chair, Paula A. Aiello was named treasurer, Dr. Sejal M. Daga was named secretary, Dr. Kathryn Y. Lee was named assistant secretary and Diane E. Gould was elected as a member.

“It is an honor to serve as Chair of the Board of The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts,” Hager said, according to a news release. “As a native of Central Massachusetts and a Westborough resident, being part of this organization is meaningful both personally and professionally. I look forward to working with my fellow Board members and the team to continue building on The Health Foundation’s strong legacy of community investment.”

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