Meet Tara Lisa Perry — the newest member of MultiCare’s Board of Directors

Ten years ago, Tara Lisa Perry took what she describes as a “leap of faith.” She left her hometown of Atlanta, Georgia, to move to Seattle, where she joined the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children — and it was a decision that shaped the trajectory of her career.

In three years’ time, Perry would rise from chief strategy officer of the organization to CEO. But perhaps most importantly, Perry pursued some of the most fulfilling, consequential work of her professional life: helping vulnerable youth and families thrive. Now, Perry is bringing her passion, experience and wealth of expertise to MultiCare Health System as the newest member of our Board of Directors.

Below Perry answers questions about what leadership means to her and what she hopes to accomplish at MultiCare.

Q: Tell us about your professional journey.

I’m currently CEO of National CASA/GAL, which leads a network of 950 state organizations and local programs that recruit, train and support volunteers. Judges appoint these volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect, many of whom are in foster care.

Before National CASA/GAL, I was the vice president of strategy and operations for the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta, the third largest arts center in the U.S.

Q: What’s your leadership philosophy?

Helping others realize their fullest potential is something that guides my work and my professional relationships. There are so many ways to do this, from acknowledging someone’s contributions to providing opportunities for them to stretch their skill set. I remember every person in my life that supported or guided me, and many are still doing so today. It’s my duty to pay it forward.

Q: Why did you decide to join MultiCare’s Board?

At National CASA/GAL, I see many issues that impact children, youth and families, and access to community resources and quality health care are among them. MultiCare believes that everyone should have the opportunity to live a healthy life, just as we at National CASA/GAL believe that every child should have the opportunity to thrive in a safe, loving home. There are many parallels between the work of our organizations. I feel well aligned with what MultiCare stands for and hope that my background and experience will contribute to an already strong set of leaders.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish as a board member?

My goal is to collaborate with fellow board members and MultiCare leadership on the organization’s strategic direction. Often, I have found that stepping out of my comfort zone has led to some of the best outcomes. Even when outcomes are uncertain, I believe that trying new approaches or considering “what if?” can drive discussions and lead to new opportunities. I hope that this approach, coupled with data-driven practices, will support the board’s work.

Q: What do you see as important issues for MultiCare to address?

The field of health care is evolving, and so is the world around us. It’s important for MultiCare to adapt to changes in the field so that it can continue making our communities healthier places to live. To do this, we must be collaborative leaders, strengthening current relationships or fostering new ones with partners that share this vision.

Q: What would you like patients and community members to know about how you will represent their interests?

My hope is that together we can develop and strengthen a framework for our health care system to meet the needs of everyone in our communities so that all individuals and families have a healing and healthy future.

Q: What do you do when you’re not working?

Family is incredibly important to me, so I make as much time as I can to see my son in Atlanta and talk with my 90-year-old mother. She always has a funny story to share. She makes me realize what’s important in life and how fortunate I am to still be able to have these special moments with her. I call her every day, no matter where I am or what I’m doing. She is the perfect bookend to any hectic day.