Dear Friends and Supporters of the Roberto Clemente Clinic,
This past year has tested our resolve in ways we never anticipated. Stricter government regulations for health clinics, a global downturn in charitable donations, devastating early rains that flooded and damaged our facility, and most heartbreakingly, the sudden passing of our beloved Operations Director and Pharmacist of 17 years, Gustavo Ibarra, who left behind a grieving family with three children.
Yet through every challenge, three exceptional leaders in Nicaragua stepped forward with unwavering strength, positive attitudes, and professional dedication. They have kept our clinic operating 24/7 for our community, ensuring that over 20,000 annual patient-visits continue without interruption. Their resilience and commitment have been nothing short of extraordinary.
Today, our Board is proud to announce well-deserved promotions for these outstanding individuals who have proven themselves as true pillars of our mission.
Meet Our Executive Leadership Team
Dra. Hazel Ruiz – Medical Director, General Physician and Clinical Diabetologist
Dr. Hazel Ruiz continues to bring exceptional medical expertise and compassionate leadership to her new role as the clinic’s Medical Director. With her deep understanding of community health needs and commitment to providing quality care regardless of circumstances, Dr. Ruiz has been instrumental in maintaining our high standards of patient care throughout this challenging period. Her clinical excellence and ability to inspire her medical team make her the ideal leader to guide our medical services forward. She will now be taking on oversight of our ambulance operations and pharmacy.
Lic. Enmanuel Jarquin Sirias – Operations and Programs Director
Enmanuel Sirias has demonstrated remarkable organizational and translation skills, and adaptability in his promotion to Operations and Programs Director. He will continue to manage our volunteer, Padrino sponsor-a-child, and water distribution programs. But he will now also oversee the facility of our clinic, including our vehicles. His proactive approach to problem-solving and his ability to maintain operational excellence during crises have been invaluable to our mission. Enmanuel’s dedication to efficiency and community outreach continues to strengthen our impact in Tola.
Lic. Auxiliadora Rivera – Comptroller and Chief Administrator
Auxiliadora Riveras has proven herself as an indispensable financial steward and leader in her new role as Comptroller and Administrator. She manages our clinic’s financial operations, oversees administrative functions, meets regularly with government Ministry officials to ensure regulatory compliance, and maintains the HR systems that keep our clinic running smoothly. Her reliability and attention to detail are crucial in navigating the economic and changing regulatory challenges we’ve faced this year while maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency.
Looking Forward: Supporting Their Vision
Our Executive Team has shared their wish list of priorities to reach their ambitious goals for themselves, the clinic, and our surrounding community:
Infrastructure and Equipment Needs:
- Repair and upgrade facilities damaged by flooding
- Modern medical equipment to enhance patient care capabilities
- Reliable backup power systems for uninterrupted service
- Improved telecommunications and internet connectivity
- Enhanced Mobile health unit to reach remote communities
- Enhanced maternal and child health programs
- Preventive care and health education initiatives
- Mental health and counseling services
- Continuing education opportunities for medical staff
- Leadership development programs
- Technology training and digital health tools
- Staff retention and competitive compensation packages
- Expanded pharmacy services and medication access
- Nutrition and wellness programs
- Upgraded emergency response capabilities
- Partnerships with local businesses, schools, and organizations
These three remarkable leaders have shown us what true dedication looks like. They have transformed challenges into opportunities, grief into renewed purpose, and obstacles into stepping stones toward a stronger future for the Roberto Clemente Health Clinic.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Hazel Ruiz, Enmanuel Sirias, and Auxiliadora Riveras on their well-deserved promotions. Their leadership ensures that our clinic will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and healing for the thousands of patients who depend on us each year.
With gratitude and admiration,
Julia C. Guth, Chair
The Roberto Clemente Health Clinic
[email protected]