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Our board of directors is composed of visionaries who share a common goal - a future where careers in healthcare, education and other specialities are more accessible to everyone. They are the driving force behind comprehensive educational guidance, high school completion programs, and practical career skills that lead to immediate job opportunities and sustainable wages. Their mission is to effect transformative change at multiple levels - individuals, communities, local businesses, and families, with the ultimate aim of breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and addiction through education. They are committed to fostering collaborations with other organizations in the community to create opportunities that will fortify the Southern Illinois community as a whole. 

Our
Board of Directors

Meet Jennifer Clevenger, the driving force and strategic mind behind Healthcare Pro Relief. Raised in a low-income family in Southern Illinois, Jennifer overcame numerous obstacles to carve a remarkable path in healthcare. Her journey began with a GED, led her through the US Army, and ultimately a Master of Science degree in Nurse Anesthesia in 2015, which is culminated in prestigious board certifications from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, the American Association of Critical Care Nurses, and the National Board of Certification and Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists.

After 9 years as a practicing nurse anesthesiologist, and current role as a regional manager for 360 Anesthesia, an anesthesia management company that provides services to over 25 hospitals nationwide. Jennifer is the cofounder and former Chief Executive Officer at an International Infertility agency and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Nurse Anesthesia degree at Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia along with a fellowship as a Nurse Educator. Her experiences have fueled her passion to help others overcome their educational barriers, leading her to establish Healthcare Pro Relief. She has a strong desire to help others overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams of having a career.


 

Jennifer Clevenger

Chief Executive Officer

Meet Krista A. Chmiel, the dedicated and passionate Chief Operations Officer at Healthcare Pro Relief. Based in Marion, Krista is committed to designing programs and fundraising initiatives that will improve our Southern Illinois community through education and career skill development.

In addition to her role at Healthcare Pro Relief, Krista is an Adjunct Professor at John A. Logan College. She holds degrees in Music Education and Vocal Performance from Illinois State University, and a Master's in Music with an emphasis in Opera/Musical Theatre Performance, Choral Conducting, and General Music. Krista also holds the position of a substitute teacher in the Marion Unit 2 school district.

Krista's diverse background, including directing musical productions and composing music, allows her to bring a creative approach to her work. She is also a member of the American Choral Directors Association and the National Association for Music Education, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning.

Krista Chmiel

Chief Operations Officer

Meet Lynda Rutherford, the dynamic powerhouse serving as the Chief Financial Officer for Healthcare Pro Relief.  A proud alumna of Rend Lake College, Lynda brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team. Her impressive career includes roles as an administrative director for a global infertility agency and an Aflac insurance agent, providing her with a unique skill set and perspective that greatly enhances our operations.

But Lynda's expertise doesn't stop there. She also brings a unique background in emergency medical dispatch, where she served a network of 16 fire districts, 5 ambulance districts, 7 law enforcement agencies, along with Hazmat, Emergency Management, and Animal Control. This experience has sharpened her multitasking abilities and adaptability, qualities she now applies to her role at Healthcare Pro Relief.

In her current role, Lynda uses her extensive experience and problem-solving prowess to ensure our operations are seamless. She is a critical part of our team, helping us fulfill our commitment to delivering high-quality education programs and provide aid and resources to members of the community. 

Lynda Rutherford

Chief Financial Officer

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