A Message From Our CEO
Welcome to Avera’s 2020 Annual Report. Thank you for your interest in our health ministry.
Although there were many events and highlights of the past year, 2020 will be remembered for its disruptors. From flooding and tornado damage to the COVID-19 pandemic, things beyond our control interrupted not only our plans but the very core ways in which Avera operates.
I have found myself looking back upon the legacy of our founders, the Benedictine and Presentation Sisters, who were called to Dakota Territory to minister in the 1880s. The Sisters faced their share of challenges – scarcity of resources, times of war, epidemics and economic downturns. In fact, answering the need of diphtheria and influenza epidemics was the very reason why several Avera hospitals were founded.
Today, we are answering the challenges of our time, and COVID-19 will certainly stand out. Not only has this been a time of difficulty and hardship for many, it’s been a time of innovation and heroism.
2020 was the year of the caregiver. Signs saying “heroes work here” placed in front of various Avera locations were certainly true. Our employees display an amazing depth of commitment to the mission of Avera as we live out our Gospel values of hospitality, compassion and stewardship.
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.
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