Kootenai Health announces new leader

COEUR d'ALENE - A 10-month, national search for the next president of the Kootenai Health Foundation is over.

Shawn Bassham of Casper, Wyo., was selected to replace Teri Farr, who is retiring.

Bassham has a master's degree from Colorado State University, is a Certified Fundraising Executive and served as the executive director of the Wyoming Medical Center Foundation for seven years. Prior to that she was state director for program services and public affairs for the Wyoming March of Dimes.

Her first day will be Monday, Sept. 24.

Farr joined Kootenai Health in August 2000 as the hospital's vice president of community development and executive director of the foundation. She provided strategic oversight for the medical center's community relations and served as the Kootenai Health Foundation's president.

"In the 12 years Teri has called Coeur d'Alene home, she has become an integral part of the community," said Jon Ness, Kootenai Health CEO. "She is known as one of the most respected, experienced and successful fundraisers in the region and her work has impacted the health care received by thousands in our community each year."

Farr moved to Coeur d'Alene in 2000 to become only the second executive director of the Kootenai Health Foundation.

"Teri has exceeded the expectations of the nine-member volunteer Foundation Board with her ability to join the Coeur d'Alene community and raise over $16 million to support projects that might not otherwise be available at Kootenai Medical Center," said Bob Yuditsky, Kootenai Health Foundation board chairman. "Through her work she has earned a reputation as an advocate for quality health care in the region."

Under Farr's direction, the Festival of Trees - the foundation's signature fundraising event - has grown with $3.5 million raised during her tenure to benefit projects including the cancer centers, emergency services, heart center, children's services and critical care services.

"I was blessed to be invited to this role 12 years ago and to have had the opportunity to make this community my home," Farr said in a press release. "I have been able to work with an amazing group of volunteers, donors, professionals, community leaders, organizations and hospital personnel who give of themselves every day to make this a special place to live and receive medical care. This synergy has changed many lives and I am honored to have been able to play a part."