Celebrating 20 Years of the St. Louis Integrated Health Network: A Journey of Advancing Health Equity
As we move forward towards 2024, let’s take a moment to celebrate the journey we’ve traveled and the milestones we’ve reached. This New Year, let’s adopt the wisdom of Sankofa—a powerful metaphor that encourages us to look back, learn from our past, and carry those lessons into the future.
2023 marked 20 years of the St. Louis Integrated Health Network (IHN). On November 2nd, we celebrated this momentous occasion at the brand-new 21c Museum Hotel with IHN’s staff, partners, and community leaders. This stunning and unique setting provided the perfect backdrop to reflect on our achievements and to honor those who have been vital in advancing health equity in St. Louis.
At the event, we had the opportunity to recognize and honor several individuals who have played key roles in our mission:
- Mr. Joseph Pierle (CEO – Missouri Primary Care Association)
- Ms. Shameem Clark Hubbard (Alderwoman, St. Louis)
- Ms. Cheron Phillips (Community Collaborator, EleVATE)
- Ms. Richelle Smith (Community Collaborator, EleVATE)
- Ms. Rebeccah Bennett (Founder, Emerging Wisdom, LLC)
- Ms. Amanda Stoermer (Chief of Staff, IHN)
- Ms. Joyce Driver (Community Referral Coordinator, IHN)
In addition, we were privileged to have Mayor Tishaura Jones, St. Louis County Executive Sam Page, Missouri Senator Brian Williams, and CareSTL Health CEO and IHN Board Chairperson, Angela Clabon, in attendance. They shared their thoughts and reflections on the significant work IHN has accomplished over the past two decades.
Among the highlights of the evening, IHN received a proclamation from the mayor’s office, officially naming November 2nd as “St. Louis Integrated Health Network Day!” Additionally, Senator Brian Williams presented IHN with a Certificate of Recognition for our accomplishments. Vector Communications showcased a video and an impact report that highlighted our achievements and provided a glimpse into IHN’s new strategic plan, produced by Key Strategic Group.
The night was unforgettable, filled with beautiful music by Jennifer Williams and Bell Darris, delicious food by Matt Daughaday and the Idol Wolf staff, and was graciously hosted by Rebeccah Bennett.
IHN is incredibly grateful to all our collaborators and supporters. As we look forward to 2024 and beyond, we remain committed to advancing health equity in our region and making a lasting impact for the next 20 years and beyond. Thank you for being part of our journey.
Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to get involved in our mission. Here’s to a future of continued progress and success!