The Community Star Program, hosted annually by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health, honors exceptional individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing rural health care. Each year, a book of inspiring stories is published on National Rural Health Day to spotlight their achievements. We are thrilled to celebrate one of Washington’s own as a 2024 Community Star.
Theresa Sullivan, MBA, FACHE, ACSTH, serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Samaritan Healthcare in Moses Lake, Washington. Since 2014, Theresa has championed rural health care, leading efforts to expand medical services and enhance access for underserved populations.
Under her guidance, Samaritan has opened a second Rural Health Clinic, improved walk-in care through technology, and spearheaded the development of a new hospital set to open in 2026. These achievements exemplify her dedication to ensuring rural communities receive equitable, high-quality care.
Theresa’s leadership also extends beyond Samaritan Healthcare. She collaborated with six publicly owned healthcare organizations to establish the Grand Columbia Health Alliance, fostering shared resources and technology to benefit patients across the region. In her words, “When you strengthen a rural hospital, you truly strengthen the whole community.” Her passion for rural health stems from personal experience, witnessing the profound connection between rural communities and their hospitals.
The Washington State Office of Rural Health is proud to recognize Theresa Sullivan’s unwavering dedication and leadership. Her selection as a 2024 Community Star highlights the remarkable impact she has made in rural Washington. To learn more about the Community Star Program and read this year’s inspiring stories, visit PowerofRural.org.
