Katherine Gottlieb facts for kids

Katherine Gottlieb was a very important leader in healthcare for Alaska Native people. She was the president and CEO of the Southcentral Foundation, an organization that provides health services in Alaska.

Who Was Katherine Gottlieb?

Katherine Gottlieb dedicated her career to improving healthcare for communities in Alaska. As the head of the Southcentral Foundation, she helped make sure that many people received good medical care.

Her Education and Career

Katherine Gottlieb studied at Alaska Pacific University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a master's degree in business administration. Later, the university also gave her an honorary doctorate, which is a special degree given to people who have achieved great things.

Under her leadership, the Southcentral Foundation grew a lot. It started with fewer than 100 employees and grew to more than 2,000 people working there. The money the organization used to help people also grew from about $3 million to $323 million. This growth meant they could help many more people.

Making a Difference in Healthcare

The Southcentral Foundation uses a special way of providing healthcare called the Nuka system. This system focuses on building strong relationships with patients and their families. It aims to provide care that is centered around the person's needs.

The money for the Southcentral Foundation comes from different places. About 45 percent comes from the Indian Health Service, which is a government agency. Another 50 percent comes from health insurance companies or Medicaid. The rest comes from other groups and grants.

Katherine Gottlieb stepped down from her role at the Southcentral Foundation in August 2020.

Awards and Recognition

Katherine Gottlieb received several important awards for her work and leadership in healthcare:

• 2015 Baldrige Foundation Harry S. Hertz Leadership Award
• 2013 National Indian Health Board Award
• 2004 MacArthur Fellows Program