Alumni/ae Spotlight

Sam Lillard (MHA 65)
Virginia Community Healthcare Association
2007 Vounteer of the Year
http://www.vacommunityhealth.org/

The faculty, staff and students of the Department of Health Administration would like to congratulate Sam Lillard on winning the Prestigious Award for Virginia Community Healthcare Association's 2007 Volunteer of the Year. To see a Healthcare Professional so devoted to Community involvement is a great lesson for both students and practicing healthcare professionals.

Sam's distinguished career as a healthcare professional lasted from 1965-2003. After receiving a B.A. Degree in Economics/Business Administration from Lynchburg College, Sam came to MCV to obtain a MHA Degree in 1965.  From there, he became an Administrative Resident at Richmond Memorial Hospital and upon completing his Residency joined the Administrative Team and progressed through the ranks to become President/Administrator, a position he held until he left Richmond Memorial Hospital after 28 years of service.  After RMH was purchased by Bon Secours Health System, Sam spent 8 years as Executive Vice President/Administrator of Richmond Community Hospital. Throughout his Professional Career Sam became a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and served as a Member of the Fellowship Committee. He was also active with the Virginia Hosp. Association, the American Hospital Association, Member of the National League for Nursing and many other Local, State & National Healthcare Organizations.

During Sam's years as a Hospital Administrator he was also very involved in serving his Community.  Just a few of his noteworthy appointments were, Board Member of the Richmond Hospital Authority, Board Member & two term Chair of Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, two term Chair for the Healthcare Division of the United Way of Richmond, two term chair of the Board of Memorial Child Guidance Clinic and a member of the Health Advisory Committee to the City of Richmond School Board. Sam served his community in many other capacities throughout his 36 year career.

Sam's commitment to his Community did not end when he retired professionally, but instead continued to thrive.  Currently, Sam represents five different Community Organizations in different capacities, sharing his knowledge and expertise on many levels.

He has just completed two four year terms as a Board Member for Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, a two year term as Secretary & Treasurer of The Va. Assoc. of Community Service Boards, he is currently a member of the Memorial Child Guidance Endowment Board, Chair of the Board for the Capital Area Health Network as well as a Volunteer for Meals on Wheels.  Without hesitation he accepts his responsibilities & successfully balances his schedule to meet his commitment.  He is always available when called upon.

Sam is a testament for how Healthcare Professionals lead in their communities. We again congratulate Sam Lillard for receiving the Virginia Community Healthcare Association's 2007 Volunteer of the Year Award!