Rachael Sherard is the Senior Vice President of Rural Health Services at Avera Health, a Catholic-based integrated network made up of over 300 hospitals, medical practices, extended care facilities and other related health providers in South Dakota and surrounding states. In her role with Avera, she oversees the systems’ grant writing efforts, rural facility strategic planning, community-based programs and the system’s American Indian Health Initiative. Rachael received a Bachelors’ of Science Degree from South Dakota State University and her Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Sioux Falls. Prior to joining Avera, Rachael served as the Nutrition Director for Senior Citizens Services, Inc, which has been renamed, the Center for Active Generations. In this role, she managed the daily operations of the Senior Nutrition program in southeastern South Dakota.