We’re very happy to announce that the Board of Directors of San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine has chosen Kathleen Pacurar as our new President and CEO. The appointment was made earlier this month, on July 1. Kathleen has accomplished many things for our organization during her five years as the Chief Development Officer, including the implementation of programs that have been influential in raising the awareness of the importance of hospice and palliative care in our San Diego community.

With over two decades of experience, Kathleen brings a strong background in community relations and fundraising to her new leadership position. Before joining us, she served as the Executive Director of UCSD Health Sciences Development, and worked with the American Foundation for AIDS Research and the Catholic Diocese of San Diego. Through the years, Kathleen’s achievements have been enhanced by the deep relationships she has built with colleagues and friends in the San Diego community and beyond.

In her new role as President and CEO, Kathleen will oversee our workforce of more than 800 employees and 700 volunteers. She will continue to educate the community on the increasingly important role of hospice care. She also plans to expand the organization’s research and education programs to enhance its ability to offer innovative treatments. Finally, Kathleen will continue developing programs that improve the integration of palliative care in existing healthcare systems locally, nationally, and worldwide.

Former CEO, Jan Cetti, who recently retired, did a phenomenal job over the past 14 years building the prominence and influence of the organization, as well as leading San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine through a time of exceptional growth in the number of patients served. Jan has built a solid foundation for the organization’s future and her work with will always be remembered and appreciated.