Care Initiatives is pleased to announce the appointment of two new board members, Mary Jane Carothers and Betsy Rust, as well as the promotion of current board member Denise Strum, to board chair.
Mary Jane Carothers is a lifelong Iowan who brings nearly 40 years of healthcare experience to her new role. Mary Jane’s professional accomplishments include serving as the Vice President of Quality Improvement & Clinical Affairs for the Iowa Health Care Association, serving on multiple committees for the American Healthcare Association, and serving on advisory boards for Telligen and Iowan Health Care Collaborative.
Betsy, an avid golfer, passionate hockey mom, and travel enthusiast, brings nearly 40 years of healthcare experience to her role with Care Initiatives’ board. She is known for her ability to navigate health care reimbursement. She has worked with providers in developing and executing managed care strategies, including PACE and ISNP. Her experience includes contributing to several state and national industry associations that support the senior living industry. She has also regularly contributed to McKnight’s and Skilled Nursing News.
Care Initiatives’ leaders are confident that both Mary Jane and Betsy will bring valuable insights to the board.
For three years, Denise Strum, CPA, has been a valued board member. She has been promoted to the role of board chair. She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this position. For the past 35 years, Denise has led finance and administrative teams in healthcare and government at the executive and c-suite levels. Denise maintains membership and board affiliation with multiple organizations and dedicates her time to volunteering for the United Way of Central Iowa.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mary Jane Carothers and Betsy Rust to the board and for the promotion of Denise Strum to board chair,” said Mike Beal, CEO of Care Initiatives. “Their diverse backgrounds and vast experience will be valuable as we grow and evolve as a company. We look forward to the contributions they will make to our organization.”
Care Initiatives is Iowa’s largest not-for-profit skilled nursing care and senior care provider. Care Initiatives and Care Initiatives Hospice operates 58 skilled nursing, rehabilitation, Alzheimer’s/dementia, assisted living, and hospice locations throughout Iowa.
