Board of Directors

The Middlesex Hospital Alliance is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors of up to fifteen (15) elected (voting) and five (5) ex-officio (non-voting) members. 

The Board of Directors play an important leadership role in supporting the Alliance’s strategic goals and directions, monitoring quality, and overseeing financial resources while ensuring hospital services continue to meet the needs of our communities.

Board of Directors 2025-26

  • Ron Sapsford, Board Chair
  • Melanie Stanley, Immediate Past Chair
  • Nan Brooks, Board Director
  • Ashley Podolinsky, Board Director
  • Cynthia Bos, Board Director
  • Chelsea King, Board Director
  • Jaclyn Cairns, Board Director
  • Michael Clarke, Board Director
  • Mark Teeple, Board Director
  • Richard Trotter, Board Director
  • Chris Gratton, Board Director
  • Chris Harris, Board Director
  • Cheryl Waters, Board Director
  • Susan Nickle, Board Director

Ex-Officio

  • Dr. Elisheva Chernick, Chief of Staff
  • Julie McBrien, President & CEO
  • Krista Shea, Chief Nursing Officer
  • Devin Sturdy, Chief Financial Officer
  • Dr. Candace Rivest, President of Medical Staff
  • Victoria Pretty, Coordinator of Board Affairs

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Board of Directors Recruitment 2026/2027 
Caring for Our Communities: Building our Future Together   

Be an Integral Part of Governing Your Rural, Community Hospitals – Seeking Volunteer Board Directors & Community Representatives 

The Middlesex Hospital Alliance (MHA), comprising Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital (SMGH) and Four Counties Health Services (FCHS), is actively seeking candidates to join and expand the skills, experience and local voice on its Board of Directors and Board Committees for the 2026/27 term. The MHA Board of Directors is interested in exceptional individuals who are willing to devote their time, energy and expertise to influence healthcare in rural Middlesex County by providing valuable insights and leadership on a diverse range of policy and governance matters. 

As a board member or community representative, you play a pivotal role and have a unique opportunity during these challenging times in healthcare to help shape and sustain healthcare for your community. We welcome applications from those residing in our communities, visionary leaders with strong corporate skills, have an established reputation for personal integrity, and demonstrate ability to exercise independent judgment and the desire to part of a results-focused progressive volunteer Board of Directors. If you are eager to leverage your expertise for the betterment of the health and well-being of our communities – we want to hear from you!   

Prospective candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to the hospital and the communities we serve, possessing an awareness of the challenges faced by our two rural hospital sites and the broader healthcare system. Successful applicants should be prepared to actively participate in monthly meetings and contribute to a committee. Additionally, board members and community representatives have the opportunity to attend relevant Ontario Hospital Association (OHA) education sessions.  

While prioritizing a skills-based board, the MHA is equally dedicated to ensuring that the composition of the board mirrors the diversity of the communities we serve. We encourage applications from individuals who can bring varied perspectives and experiences to the MHA mission and vision.  MHA is committed to diversity and equity, and welcomes applications from all individuals, including women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities, LGBTQIA2S+ persons and others who may contribute to reflect our communities’ diversity.  

Time Commitment 

Board Directors:  

  • 9 meetings a year (meetings are 3 hours + prep time) 
  • Term: Appointments are a three-year term, with a maximum tenure of nine years 
  • Annual Board Advancement – 1 day per year  

Community Representatives:  

  • 4-5 meetings a year (meetings are 2 hours + prep time) 
  • Term: Appointments are a two-year term with a maximum tenure of six years  
  • Annual Board Advancement – 1 day per year  

Applicants are invited to share their skills, experience, and enthusiasm by submitting an application and resume by May 1st, 2026, to boardofdirectors@mha.tvh.ca. 

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