By Christianna Kearns, FACHE
As we bring 2025 to a close, I find myself reflecting with deep appreciation on the extraordinary work that has taken place across our CAHL community this year. Serving as your President has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and it is because of the remarkable people who make up this chapter, those who lead with intention, generosity, and heart.
This year brought a historic milestone for CAHL: we surpassed 1,900 members, officially making us the third largest ACHE chapter in the United States. As we prepare for CAHL’s milestone 20-year anniversary in 2026, we do so on a foundation strengthened by your dedication. We are well positioned for our third consecutive ACHE Chapter Merit Award for meeting ACHE’s performance standard in net membership growth. This achievement is not just a number; it reflects the strength of our community, the value we bring to healthcare leaders, and the dedication of every member, volunteer and committee who helped make this growth possible.
But above all, the greatest achievement of this year is the sense of connection, collaboration, and shared purpose we have built together.
Across our chapter, all 12 committees have demonstrated exceptional commitment and collaboration, contributing meaningfully to our mission. From delivering high-quality educational programs, advancing diversity and equity efforts to strengthening member engagement and supporting early and mid-careerists. This collective work has elevated our events, initiatives, and operational infrastructure, with professionalism, creativity, and genuine care at every step. I am continually inspired by how our volunteers show up, often behind the scenes and driven by a true desire to give back to the field and to one another.
Throughout the year, what has inspired me most is not simply the volume of our work, but the heart behind it. The thoughtful planning behind every event, the willingness to support each other, and the passion brough to advancing healthcare leadership are what make CAHL truly exceptional. Our volunteers give their time generously while balancing demanding careers, personal responsibilities, and the challenges of our industry, and they do so because they believe in the importance of this community. That generosity is noticed. It is appreciated. And it matters.
To every committee chair, vice chair, volunteer, and board member, THANK YOU! Your commitment, your energy, and your leadership are the heartbeat of our chapter. I am deeply grateful to each of you and inspired daily by the work you do. And thank you to our members, your engagement, participation, and commitment continue to shape CAHL’s identity and made 2025 a year of growth, impact, and community.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Christianna Kearns
