PPRM’s chief experience officer takes on leadership of the regional health care provider at critical time for reproductive health care
DENVER (January 13, 2022) – Adrienne Mansanares was named CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains (PPRM) by its board of directors, following the retirement announcement of longtime CEO Vicki Cowart. Mansanares has served as PPRM’s chief experience officer for the last five years, and previously served as chair of its board of directors. Mansanares’s experiences with Planned Parenthood as an executive, board member, and patient contribute to her strong conviction and commitment to the organization and the over 100,000 patients it serves annually.
Mansanares’ passionate and committed leadership comes at a pivotal point, as Roe v. Wade hangs in the balance at the U.S. Supreme Court, and sexual and reproductive health care face unprecedented attacks. These attacks disproportionately harm many communities of color and people with low incomes. Now more than ever before, access to critical, time-sensitive care depends on where you live and how much money you make.
“Reproductive and sexual health care is essential to a healthy, thriving community,” Mansanares said. “And yet, there is an urgent, unmet need in our region and nationwide. I am committed to bringing together political, health care, and community leaders of all backgrounds and perspectives to advance the whole health of our patients, and, in turn, our communities. My approach to this work is deeply rooted in the communities we are so proud to serve every day, and I welcome and encourage others to join PPRM to ensure high quality, affordable, compassionate care is accessible to all.”
The board’s search for this role demanded a strategic and visionary CEO who would be an empowering, collaborative leader. The perfect CEO would already be a champion for justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion; a relationship- and community-builder with a passion for the mission.
“Adrienne Mansanares is the right leader for this moment in our history,” said Julia Alvarez, chair of PPRM’s Board of Directors. “Visionary, results-oriented, empathetic and collaborative — she understands what our patients and communities need and is committed to delivering.”
“As I look back at a long and rewarding career with PPRM, I’m so proud of all we’ve accomplished and overcome,” said Cowart. “In such a critical time for the future of reproductive rights and access, I can’t think of a more passionate, dedicated, and forward-thinking leader to guide us as we meet this historic moment. The impact Adrienne has had on this organization cannot be overstated, and PPRM will be in strong, talented, and innovative hands under her leadership.”
Mansanares has been key to shaping the PPRM experience since 2016 when she became chief experience officer (CXO), having served on PPRM’s board for seven years and as board chair for two years. She also has a deep, personal history with Planned Parenthood; her own experiences as a young patient without health insurance seeking reproductive health care and birth control in a rural area made an indelible impression that has fueled her dedication to PPRM and its patients.
###
Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, which includes Colorado, Southern Nevada, New Mexico, and Wyoming, has been integral in building healthy communities and families for over 100 years.
Since 1916, we have been committed to delivering the highest quality reproductive health care, teaching comprehensive and inclusive sex education, and working diligently to protect an individual’s right to make their own decisions. Each year over 100,000 patients visit our 24 health and community centers throughout our region.
Tags: