Whidbey Island, WA — The WhidbeyHealth Foundation is proud to recognize and honor longtime board member Bert Speir, who is stepping down after 18 years of dedicated service. In recognition of his extraordinary leadership and unwavering commitment to community health, the Foundation Board has appointed Bert as an Emeritus Board Member—a special title reserved for former board members who have made exceptional and lasting contributions to the organization.

Emeritus Board Members serve in an honorary capacity and may continue to offer insight, mentorship, and institutional memory, though they no longer hold voting responsibilities. It is one of the highest honors the Foundation can bestow.

“Bert’s leadership has helped shape the Foundation into what it is today,” said Rainy Simpson, Executive Director of the WhidbeyHealth Foundation. “His wisdom, integrity, and lifelong dedication to healthcare have been a guiding light for us. This Emeritus status is a symbol of our deep gratitude.”

Bert Speir has spent his entire professional life serving in the healthcare arena. His career began as a clinical psychologist providing direct patient care. He then advanced through roles in medical program planning and senior management, overseeing both outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals.

During his distinguished 31-year career in the United States Navy, Bert held back-to-back assignments as Commanding Officer of naval hospitals in Oak Harbor, WA and Naples, Italy. He later served as a special Navy consultant for medical organizational development and concluded his service as Chief of Staff at the Navy’s medical headquarters command in Washington, D.C.

After retiring and returning to Whidbey Island, Bert brought his deep expertise and passion for healthcare to the WhidbeyHealth Foundation, serving on the Board for 18 years, including 3 terms as President. His insight and steady leadership were instrumental during key transitions and growth periods for the Foundation.

Though stepping back from active Board duties, Bert will continue to be a vital part of the Foundation family as an Emeritus Board Member.

“We are grateful to Bert for nearly two decades of selfless service to our hospital and our community,” said Simpson. “His legacy will continue to inspire everything we do.”

Media Contact:

Rainy Simpson

Executive Director, WhidbeyHealth Foundation

simpsra@whidbeyhealth.org

360-678-7656 EXT. 6500