Catalina Island Medical Center has another voice at the state health care level thanks to the recent appointment of a local resident. Rose Ellen Gardner was appointed to the California Hospital Association's Governance Forum. CHA is a professional organization that represents more than 400 hospitals throughout the state. The Governance Forum, which is one of CHA's specialty centers, focuses on the role of boards of trustees.

"As there is more attention paid to the boards of hospitals this committee has a unique value in that there is no other outlet for trustee input," said Peggy Wheeler, CHA's vice president for Rural Health Care and Governance. "Rose Ellen comes to us very highly recommended."

With nearly four years experience on the board at the Avalon Medical Development Corporation board of directors, Gardner has been a strong voice at Catalina Island Medical Center. "I'm honored by this appointment," she said. "The California Hospital Association is an effective organization and I hope to contribute to it."

Gardner retired from the Catalina Island Conservancy as its president. She worked for the organization for more than 30 years. She has also served on the boards of the Catalina Island Women's Forum and the Catalina Island Museum.

Her dedication to Catalina Island Medical Center was inherited from her father, Joe Arno, who was instrumental in the funding and building of the hospital in 1960.

CIMC's Chief Executive Officer Bryan Ballard recommended Gardner for the appointment. "I've been very impressed with Rose Ellen's dedication and clear thinking," he said. "I know she has a lot to offer and the California Hospital Association will benefit from her experience."