Adventist Health Simi Valley Foundation Launches Community Engagement Committee
The Adventist Health Simi Valley Foundation has officially launched its Community Engagement Committee (CEC), marking a new chapter in strengthening support for life-saving, patient-centered care at Adventist Health Simi Valley.
Established to champion and advance the hospital’s mission, the CEC builds upon a long-standing legacy of philanthropy that has shaped Adventist Health Simi Valley for more than 60 years. From its earliest beginnings — including the generous donation of the land on which the hospital stands — Adventist Health Simi Valley has been rooted in local support. Created by the community and for the community, the hospital continues to deliver clinical excellence and compassionate care throughout the Simi Valley region.
“We have brought together a dynamic and deeply committed group of individuals who believe exceptional, patient-centered healthcare changes lives,” said Dr. Anand “Andy” Mohan, co-chair of the Community Engagement Committee. “Together, we are committed to shining a spotlight on the impact Adventist Health Simi Valley makes each day — one patient, one family, one life at a time.”
To officially kick off the committee’s work, CEC members gathered for a behind-the-scenes hospital tour, visiting the Emergency Department, Cath Lab, Surgery Department, and Telemetry floors. The experience provided a firsthand look at the vital work happening across the hospital each day and reinforced the committee’s shared commitment to advancing high-quality care for the Simi Valley community.
Elizabeth LaBorde, President of the Adventist Health Simi Valley and Glendale Foundations, highlighted the committee’s philanthropic focus, noting, “Through this committee’s partnership with the Foundation, we are rallying critical support for life-saving surgical and cardiac care, while also opening doors of hope for children in our Children’s Development Center through continuation-of-care scholarships.”
Looking ahead, the Community Engagement Committee will concentrate on year-one goals and engagement efforts, including plans to launch an inaugural pickleball charity tournament.
Those interested in learning more about the Community Engagement Committee or exploring opportunities to get involved are encouraged to email Laurel Johnston, Vice President of Philanthropy, Adventist Health Simi Valley Foundation.
Community Engagement Committee members
Dr. Anand “Andy” Mohan, Co-Chair
Physician, healthcare IT executive, and entrepreneur focused on digital transformation, physician support, and community-centered healthcare innovation.
Why they joined: Andy joined the Community Engagement Committee to help lead meaningful growth — connecting the right people, elevating patient awareness, and strengthening the hospital and foundation so the entire community can thrive.
Donna Bohanna
Founder and broker of Solstice International Realty, with decades of experience in luxury real estate, relocation services, and client advocacy across Southern California.
Why they joined: Donna was drawn to the committee as a chance to step outside her everyday work, bring people together through events she loves, and help build new and energizing initiatives for the hospital and community.
Kyron L. Johnson, Esq.
Attorney and California real estate broker advising organizations and executives on corporate governance, real estate transactions, and strategic growth.
Why they joined: Guided by faith and a commitment to whole-person care, Kyron joined to open his network and support an organization that lives out compassion, service, and God’s love in action.
Zak Lovenson
Founder and mortgage broker at Pacific Oaks Mortgage, specializing in residential and commercial lending solutions with over 20 years of industry experience.
Why they joined: Zak joined after realizing that his everyday conversations and strong professional network could be leveraged to give back in tangible ways and support a mission that genuinely strengthens the community.
Dr. Anandhi Narasimhan
Double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, with extensive clinical, research, and humanitarian experience.
Why they joined: Anandhi joined to move beyond individual patient care and help shape broader community solutions — expanding access, prevention, and education in child and mental health where the need is greatest.
Jennifer Merletti Penrose
Serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Tides Peptides, focused on health optimization, wellness innovation, and family-centered care advocacy.
Why they joined: Jennifer joined CEC to lend experience in wellness and elevate awareness of the hospital’s impact and strengthen the communities it serves.
Trevor Peterson
Portfolio Manager in the Commercial Lending Department at Tri Counties Bank, with experience in agricultural and commercial banking.
Why they joined: Trevor’s decision was shaped by deeply personal experiences with Adventist Health, where exceptional care during his family’s most difficult moments inspired him to give back to an organization whose values he trusts.
Shailey Shah, Pharm.D., RPh
Medical Affairs professional and Medical Science Liaison with experience across inflammation, nephrology, and cardio-metabolic therapeutic areas, specializing in scientific engagement, cross-functional collaboration, and translating complex clinical data to support patient outcomes and health system partnerships.
Why they joined: As someone whose family grew alongside this community, Shailey joined to raise awareness of the hospital’s capabilities as a provider and advocate.
Sarah Speirs
Founder and Principal of Sarah Speirs Events, a Los Angeles–based boutique event production firm specializing in high-impact experiences across sports, entertainment, and nonprofit healthcare.
Why they joined: With years of experience witnessing the transformative power of philanthropy — and having personally benefited from it — Sarah joined to give back and help amplify the impact of giving at Adventist Health Simi Valley.
