ACHE of the Southwest: A New Era of Leadership and Growth

Ginger Raya, EdD, MHA, MPA, begins her term as the 2025-2026 Chapter President for ACHE of the Southwest, leading the chapter into a dynamic period of growth, engagement, and innovation. With a commitment to advancing healthcare leadership, she will guide the chapter in fostering collaboration, professional development, and meaningful impact within the industry.

Formerly known as the Southwest Healthcare Executives Association, the chapter's transition to ACHE of the Southwest represents a renewed commitment to strengthening healthcare leadership across the region. The focus this year will be on expanding access and engagement, enhancing the member experience, and fostering deeper connections among healthcare professionals. By reaching more communities, including underserved areas, and increasing participation among students and physician leaders, the chapter aims to create a more inclusive and dynamic healthcare network. High-quality programming, networking events, and professional development opportunities will continue to support career growth and leadership excellence. Additionally, new events and summits will provide invaluable opportunities for mentorship, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among members.

Adding to this momentum, ACHE of the Southwest has been recognized with the Award of Chapter Merit as part of the 2025 Chapter Management and Awards Program. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the dedication of board members, volunteers, and all who contribute to the chapter’s success. The award will be formally presented at the ACHE Congress on Healthcare Leadership during the Malcolm T. MacEachern Memorial Lecture and Luncheon on Tuesday, March 25, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas. Members attending the Congress are encouraged to take part in celebrating this outstanding achievement.

Further strengthening the sense of community, ACHE of the Southwest invites members to the All Texas Chapters’ Reception at the ACHE Congress. The event will take place on Sunday, March 23, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lanier Grand Ballroom on the fourth floor of Hilton Americas – Houston. Hosted in collaboration with all seven ACHE Texas Chapters, the reception offers an opportunity to connect with healthcare leaders from across the state while enjoying complimentary light bites and beverages. Attendance does not require ACHE Congress registration, but members are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance. More details can be found on the ACHE of the Southwest LinkedIn page.

As the chapter embarks on this new phase, Raya expresses deep appreciation for the dedication and engagement of its members. She looks forward to fostering an environment where all voices contribute to the shared success of the organization. With strong leadership and an engaged membership, ACHE of the Southwest is poised for a year of meaningful progress, professional development, and lasting impact on healthcare leadership throughout the region.

Leading this effort is the newly announced 2025 Board of Directors, which includes Frantz Berthaud as President-Elect, Melodya Salaices as Immediate Past President, Jimmy Moody as Treasurer, Judith Cosme as Secretary, Jeanine C. Loewen overseeing Communications, Sarah McMillan leading Membership, Art Garza serving as Member-at-Large, Lupe Rodriguez as Community Liaison, Kristen Koehler as Education Chair, and Martin Lopez as Education Co-Chair.

With a strong foundation and a clear vision for the future, ACHE of the Southwest is committed to advancing healthcare leadership and strengthening connections across the region. Members are encouraged to stay engaged, take advantage of new opportunities, and support one another in the pursuit of excellence in healthcare leadership.