The Sheep River Health Trust announced a new chair of the board during a recent meeting.

Dr. Robert Haslem stepped down from his position as chair of the health trust and Frances Jackson-Dover, a longtime member of the board was elected to the position on Jan. 28.

In the coming years, Jackson-Dover expects economic restraints to pose a challenge to the board’s fundraising efforts.

Currently, the board is in the midst of improving infrastructure such as new bylaws.

“If there is a way to support the rural needs that often differ from the urban needs, then that’s the challenge,” said Jackson-Dover.

Dianne Harvey, a member of the health trust’s board of trustees, said the board elected the right person and they have a leader they can be extremely confident in.

“I don’t mind going on record as saying that it is very hard to say no to Frances,” said Harvey.

Jackson-Dover has been with the health trust for six years filling a variety of positions. In her time she has spearheaded the creation of the trust’s Speaker’s Series, which regularly invites prominent health care officials to speak in Okotoks, and the creation of new trust policies.

Jackson-Dover said the trust has come a long way from the days of bake sales and other small fundraising efforts.

“Way back when it was basically a women’s auxiliary,” said Jackson-Dover.

The trust raises funds for programs, services and equipment needed in the foothills not already provided by Alberta Health Services.

“Right now we are providing things we would have not had to provide 10 years ago,” said Jackson-Dover.

Prior to Haslem’s announcement, Jackson-Dover had been filling the role of chairperson temporarily. She will now be the full-time chairperson.

“I like to think it was a seamless transition,” said Jackson-Dover.

A strong believer in the trust’s team, the election to chair was not a final gratification for Jackson-Dover. She said she still has lots left to give.

“To hear that level of support from the board is a pleasant surprise,” said Jackson-Dover.

Originally approached by Jackson-Dover to join the trust one year ago, Harvey said the new chair is well connected and well positioned.

“Certainly she has a real vision and a real passion for health care in the community,” said Harvey.

Jackson-Dover is an efficient and effective chairperson and people want to be part of whatever project she is leading according to Harvey.

“She has a very effective way of keeping discussion on track,” said Harvey.

Prior to joining the trust Jackson-Dover owned an occupational health and substance testing company for 19 years. She has also chaired the trust’s primary fundraiser, the Golf 4 Wellness Charity Golf Tournament.

rnorthrop@okotoks.greatwest.ca

http://www.sheepriverhealthtrust.ca/

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