Each year, the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) honors individuals who embody the visionary leadership, dedication and spirit of the late Joe Hopkins, a pioneer in rural health care advocacy. Providence Health Care’s Chief Administrative Officer Ron Rehn received the prestigious award in 2024 for his decades of service in support of rural health care.
Ron Rehn’s path to leadership started in the lab at Providence Mount Carmel Hospital in 1978. Talented and dedicated, Ron soon found himself evolving toward leadership, eventually becoming chief administrative officer for Providence’s Stevens County ministries, including Providence Mount Carmel Hospital, Providence St. Joseph’s Hospital and Providence DominiCare.
“Ron Rehn’s remarkable 45-year journey stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to rural health care,” WSHA President and CEO Cassie Sauer said. “His ability to lead with both heart and expertise exemplify the very spirit of Joe Hopkins.”
Under Ron’s leadership, Providence Mount Carmel Hospital earned recognition from The Chartis Center for Rural Health as a Top Critical Access Hospital for three years in a row (2021-23). His steady hand during the COVID-19 pandemic guided Stevens County through an unprecedented crisis, easing fears and ensuring a coordinated and effective response.
“Ron’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was extraordinary,” Providence Health Care CEO Rod Hochman said. “His calm approach strengthened community trust during one of the most challenging times in modern health care.”
Ron has also been a passionate advocate for the development of future health care professionals. His contributions as a clinical instructor at the University of Washington School of Medicine and adjunct instructor with Davenport University Online have helped shape the next generation of rural health care leaders.
About the Joe Hopkins Memorial Award
The Joe Hopkins Memorial Award was created in 1987 to acknowledge an individual who displays the spirit of Joe Hopkins’ vision and dedication to Washington’s hospitals, with a special focus on his interest in rural health. Read more about the Joe Hopkins Memorial Award at wsha.org/awards.
