Board of Directors
Doug Dawson
Chairperson
Executive Director, Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation
Hospice care and grief support are essential to the health of our community. It is an honor to serve on the Board of Directors for The Elizabeth Hospice, an organization that provides vital services to children and adults facing the challenges associated with a life-limiting illness. Through their work, they are helping ensure that every life ends with compassion, dignity and peace.
Brian Drazba
Sr. Financial Executive, Retired
I was introduced to The Elizabeth Hospice by a colleague, shortly after experiencing home hospice with my father. That personal journey showed me just how essential it is for patients and families to receive this type of care when they face the challenges of advanced serious illnesses. The support we received made a profound difference in our lives. It’s now a privilege to give back by supporting The Elizabeth Hospice—an organization that brings this same level of care and comfort to families throughout our community.
Julia B. Foster, MBA, CFRE
Principal, Foster Innovation Group, LLC
After a short (5 days) interaction with The Elizabeth Hospice during the end of my mother’s life, I realized how impactful good hospice care can be, particularly for the caregivers for whom these final days can be confusing and emotional. The loving embrace of staff, and continued care through grief counseling and support, were outstanding. I have joined the board with the desire to elevate the role of hospice in supporting people facing the challenges of advanced serious illnesses, and to lend my non-profit experience in service to an extraordinary organization.
Joel Frader, MD, MA
Emeritus Professor of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine
Northwestern University
Sharon Hamill
PhD, Executive Director, Retired, CSU
Shiley Haynes Institute for Palliative Care
I am honored to serve on the Board of The Elizabeth Hospice, an organization that puts patients and their families first, ensuring that each enjoys the highest quality of life possible, even at the end of life. As a retired professional in palliative care and family caregiving, I look forward to contributing to the exceptional, compassionate care that The Elizabeth Hospice provides to families in San Diego and Southwest Riverside County.
Dave Mason
TV/Radio/Event Host
Ten years ago, I was introduced to hospice when my mother was in her final days. The care and compassion shown to her made me realize how important palliative care is for those nearing the end of life’s journey. I look forward to using my communication skills to raise awareness of The Elizabeth Hospice in our community and build on the legacy of founder Betty Bulen.
Michael McDuffie, PhD
Associate Professor of Philosophy
California State University, San Marcos
I serve on The Elizabeth Hospice Board of Directors because of its importance to our community and its record of service to families across the region. I know the value and benefits of skilled hospice care as a surviving son, grandson, nephew, and friend. As a bioethics professor and consultant practicing in North County, I have seen the caring commitment of its staff, and the difference they make for patients and families.
Sarah McSpadden, RN, MSN
President & Chief Executive Officer
The Elizabeth Hospice
As a hospice nurse myself, I was exposed to the wonderful work of The Elizabeth Hospice for many years before becoming part of the team in 2016. I knew I was joining an incredible group of caring and talented staff and volunteers. I am honored to be leading the organization and grateful for the support of the community and the Board in making sure we offer the very best hospice and grief services to our communities in San Diego County and Southwest Riverside County.
Tammy Morita
Senior Director for Strategic Partnerships
UC San Diego Health
This is an exciting opportunity that allows me to leverage my personal and professional experiences to support and affect positive change for The Elizabeth Hospice, and learn more about this important sector in healthcare. I am honored to support the mission of the organization and look forward to a rewarding experience.
George Olmstead
Attorney, Retired
I am pleased and proud to be a Board Member of The Elizabeth Hospice. The organization is a tremendous community resource in providing relief and comfort to those in their last stages of life, and to their loved ones.
Glenn Panzer, MD
Chief Medical Officer Emeritus
The Elizabeth Hospice
As a member of the clinical and management staff at The Elizabeth Hospice for 17 years, I had the pleasure of working side-by-side with the skilled, kind-hearted caregivers and leaders who provide exceptional end-of-life care to our community. I’m honored to continue my association with this organization that I love as a Board Member.
Johann Ramirez
Healthcare Strategist
I'm honored to serve on the board of Elizabeth Hospice; an organization whose mission deeply resonates with me. Quality end of life care is not just a medical service, it's a profound act of compassion, dignity, and humanity. I’m eager to contribute by championing initiatives that expand access, elevate care standards, and support the dedicated professionals who make this work possible. Together, we can ensure that every patient and family receives the comfort, respect, and support they deserve.
Kiprian Skavinski
Chief Financial Officer, Retired
As a long-time former employee of The Elizabeth Hospice, I saw up close the quality of care The Elizabeth Hospice provided. My family also personally benefitted from the dedication and support of the staff when my mother needed end-of-life care. I feel privileged to serve on the Board of this fine organization.