ABINGDON, Va., May 17, 2022 — Susan Abel has joined the Wellspring Foundation as director of operations and engagement.
In her role, Abel will be key in serving the organization’s goals of advancing the healthcare interests of residents in Washington, Smyth, Grayson and Russell counties.
She brings public relations, marketing, financial management and leadership skills to the position, as well as in-depth knowledge of the Foundation’s service region.
“Susan’s experience gives her a keen understanding of the healthcare challenges and opportunities we face in our area,” said Sean McMurray, executive director of Wellspring. “Her knowledge and skills are a great asset as we work to establish relationships with those who can partner with us in our goal of elevating the quality of access and care for residents of Washington County, Virginia and neighboring communities.”
Before joining the Foundation, Abel was the administrative manager of the Dr. S. Hughes Melton Family Medicine Residency Program at Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon. During her time in that role, she cultivated collaborative relationships between faculty, staff, residents and leadership teams. In addition, she managed the full residency recruitment cycle, reviewing and vetting quality candidates from a field of more than 700 applicants. Abel also led the program through a transition from American Osteopathic Association accreditation to the single accreditation system with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.
Abel also spent seven years as the marketing coordinator for Johnston Memorial Hospital and the Northeast Market of Mountain States Health Alliance, now Ballad Health. As she supported the marketing and communication needs of three hospitals, she gained an in-depth understanding of the surrounding communities and the various healthcare difficulties facing residents. She also led community outreach efforts that included the coordination of scholarship, donation and sponsorship opportunities that totaled more than $250,000 each year.
Abel earned a bachelor’s degree from Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina. She is a member of the Sigma Kappa Alpha Honors Society.
“What excites me about working for the Wellspring Foundation is the opportunity to become part of an organization that is driven by local community stakeholders with a common purpose, to improve the communities in which we serve,” Abel said. “My ability to transform big picture initiatives into workable projects, my desire to develop and maintain connections with people, and my commitment to service are key components that I will bring to this role.”
Abel is also excited about the impact the Foundation can have on the Southwest Virginia region.
“I believe the future of the Foundation is very bright,” Abel added. “We are off to a strong start with a talented and caring team, one that is committed to the principle of servant leadership and the goal of providing support and resources here at home. I’m looking forward to the meaningful work ahead.”
Abel is active in her community, having previously served as the director of Volley for a Cure at Abingdon High School and race director of the Johnston Memorial Hospital Shamrock 4 Miler, as well as a member of the Stewardship Committee at First Presbyterian Church in Bristol, Virginia.
The Wellspring Foundation was established in the fall of 2021 and is headquartered in Abingdon, Virginia. Its purpose is to enhance the quality of life for residents in Washington County and neighboring areas by advancing healthcare resources, services and programs through goal-oriented partnerships.
For more information on the Wellspring Foundation, visit www.wellspringva.org.