Providence Alaska names first Diversity Equity & Inclusion Officer

Kenneth D. McCoy Jr. to focus on promoting culturally competent
patient-centered care, diversity and inclusion of workforce

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Providence Alaska has hired Kenneth D. McCoy Jr. as its first region Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Officer beginning Feb. 14, 2022.

McCoy will be responsible for coordinating efforts to promote culturally competent, patient-centered care as well as diversity and inclusion within the Providence Alaska workforce.

“Diversity, equity and inclusion, grounded in justice and integrated into all aspects of health care, are vital for improving patient health outcomes and quality of life,” said Preston M. Simmons, DSc, FACHE, chief executive officer of Providence Alaska. “Thirty-eight percent of the Providence Alaska workforce identifies as people of color, and we serve some of the country’s most diverse communities. Ensuring Providence continues creating a diverse and equitable workforce while providing equitably delivered services is essential to our mission of serving all.”

McCoy will also help identify, develop, foster and maintain strong relationships to integrate diversity and inclusion with health initiatives that advance health status, access and awareness in the community.

McCoy joins Providence after serving as Chief of Police of the Anchorage Police Department, retiring on Feb. 1, 2022. His experience includes more than 27 years of expertise in community relations, patrol operations, criminal investigations and emergency response, as both a law enforcement officer and supervisor.

“Ken brings to this role a track record of forward-thinking leadership with a gift for discovering and molding talent and motivating inclusive, equitable teams,” said Simmons.

McCoy earned a bachelor’s degree in justice from the University of Alaska Anchorage and a certificate in criminal justice from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia.

He is also an active member of a variety of local and national boards focused on justice and law enforcement, including a role as vice chairman of the board of directors for Standing Together Against Rape (STAR).

“After serving the public for nearly three decades, it was important for me to continue to make an impact in our community,” said McCoy. “Joining Providence allows me to continue my work guiding teams and organizations with diplomacy, dignity and fairness.”

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Providence Alaska is part of Providence, a not-for-profit network of hospitals, care centers, health plans, physicians, clinics, home health services, affiliated services and educational facilities. For more information about Providence, visit www.providence.org/alaska.