As we continue celebrating SOUND’s 60th anniversary year, February offers an opportunity to reflect not only on our history, but on the determination that sustains our mission.
Across Washington, we’ve been celebrating another remarkable “60” – the Seattle Seahawks’ victory in Super Bowl LX. Whether we’re talking about athletic excellence or life-saving work in the community, the concept of ‘sixty’ represents resilience, teamwork,and long-term commitment. For SOUND, our own 60-year milestone reflects six decades of standing alongside our communities and ensuring behavioral healthcare remains accessible to those who need it most.
SOUND’s anniversary is especially meaningful to me. Having served in varying roles at SOUND since 1997, I have witnessed firsthand how thoughtful leadership and strong stewardship have shaped our growth. We also honor the visionary community leaders who founded SOUND six decades ago – former Governor Booth Gardner, along with business visionaries Mike McManus, Artie Buerk, and Dick Sprague. Throughout this year, you’ll be hearing more about our founders’ journey, how their commitment to community centered care laid the foundation we continue to build upon today.
This month, we are proud to formally welcome new members to the SOUND Board of Directors. Each brings valuable expertise and deep community connection that will help guide SOUND through this important chapter of growth:
• Henry Albrecht – Board Director and Advisor; Founder & Former CEO of Limeade.
• Nathan Johnson – Vice President of Product at Premera Blue Cross.
• Curtis Kopf – Group Vice President, Customer Experience at Insulet.
• Dr. Janie Leonhardt – Medical Director of Dermatology at Kaiser Permanente
Washington.
• Dr. Erin Vernon – Health Economist and Professor at Seattle University.
• Kim Holcomb – PR and Executive Communications Manager, Sustainability and
Community Impact at Amazon.
In Olympia, I’m actively meeting with lawmakers about decisions that will shape the future of behavioral healthcare in Washington for years to come. Continued investment in community behavioral health, including full support for CCBHC implementation, is essential to ensuring organizations like SOUND can meet growing demand, support our workforce, and provide meaningful, trauma-informed care.
With six decades of service behind us, SOUND is well-positioned to continue advancing policies, partnerships, and programs that ensure hope and healing remain within reach for all.
On behalf of the entire SOUND team, thank you for your continued partnership and support as we enter our next chapter
Most sincerely,
Katrina Egner
SOUND President & CEO
This month, I find myself reflecting on the power of partnership. Across our region, we have witnessed what is possible when communities come together around a shared vision. Seattle's successful role as a FIFA World Cup host city has showcased our region on a global stage and demonstrated the extraordinary impact of collaboration among businesses, community organizations, public agencies, volunteers, and civic leaders. We appreciated the opportunity, in coordination with King County, for SOUND’s Crisis Services team to contribute to the Behavioral Health Emergency Planning for the FIFA World Cup. Beyond the excitement of the tournament itself, the event has highlighted how collective effort can generate lasting economic opportunity, community pride, and positive outcomes that benefit us all.
Read more%20(1).png)
As SOUND Behavioral Health celebrates 60 years of serving the Puget Sound region, the organization has launched its new Corporate Community Partner Program, creating meaningful opportunities for businesses to invest in behavioral health while advancing employee wellness, community engagement, and corporate social responsibility goals.
Read more.png)
For more than 20 years, SOUND's Middle School Support Program (MSSP) has helped connect middle school students with behavioral health support where they need it most. The program is one part of SOUND's broader continuum of school-based behavioral health services, which bring care directly to students across King County. Since the program's inception, the Nesholm Family Foundation has helped sustain the MSSP through two decades of dedicated support, allowing students to access care in the place they spend much of their day: school.
Read more
