Providence Alaska Names Kenneth McCoy as Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer

Upon retiring as the first Black chief of the Anchorage Police Department, Kenneth D. McCoy moves on to another first. He has been hired as Providence Alaska’s first Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer.

In that role, McCoy is responsible for coordinating efforts to promote culturally competent, patient-centered care as well as diversity and inclusion within the Providence Alaska workforce. McCoy also helps 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.

“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,” says Preston M. Simmons, 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.”