A Message From Our CEO
Welcome to Avera’s 2019 Annual Report. Thank you for your interest in our health ministry. This was a memorable year for me because it was my first full fiscal year as Avera’s CEO.
Simply put, Avera is a special place. Here’s what sets us apart: Our hospitals were founded and are sponsored by the Benedictine and Presentation Sisters. They have given us a rich heritage of mission and ministry, and we enjoy the treasure of having them as an active part in the leadership of the Avera Health ministry.
Our employees have a depth of commitment to this ministry that’s amazing. Alongside our patients and their families, they share some of the most heartbreaking moments you can imagine, as well as moments of joy and celebration.
This commitment to the ministry and the strong faith of our employees is a testament to the legacy of the Sisters – a legacy we continue to live out.
This calling is more than an attitude of care and compassion. It’s doing the right thing at the right time for each patient. In a word, this is quality, and our quality at Avera is validated by numerous awards and recognitions, including being named as one of the 15 Top Health Systems in the nation by IBM Watson Health.

We will remember 2019 as a year of exciting growth for Avera as we expanded our health ministry to fulfill new and changing needs.
I am grateful to the senior leadership and Board of Directors who faithfully serve alongside me, as well as all the people and partners who come together to form this great organization known as Avera. Together, we impact many lives for the greater good.
Sincerely,
Bob Sutton, President and CEO