Providence Health Care awarded Dick Boysen as the 2019 recipient of the Sister Peter Claver Humanitarian Award.
After 41 years of service, Boysen recently retired as executive director of Joya Child & Family Development Center, formerly Spokane Guilds’ School. Boysen spent his entire career advocating for children and people of all ages who experience a developmental disability or delay.
The award, named after Sister Peter Claver who led Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center for 24 years, recognizes an individual for their visionary leadership and unparalleled commitment to people who are poor and vulnerable.
“Dick, much like Sister Peter Claver, is a humble and compassionate leader and believes in the worth of every person and their right to a meaningful life,” said Peg Currie, chief operating officer for Providence Health Care. “He worked tirelessly to ensure every child and family would receive the treatment and services they needed and deserved.”
Under Boysen’s leadership, Joya has grown from a volunteer group of women who provided part-time respite care, to a fulltime, year-round neurodevelopmental center of excellence with wrap-around services. Thousands of children have been served and achieved age appropriate skills in all development domains. Because of Boysen’s passion and persistence, Joya is positioned to continue serving the community for years to come.
Other nominees for the award this year were:
- Alene Alexander – Embrace Washington
- Phil Altmeyer – Union Gospel Mission
- Ruth Bare and David Bare, M.D.
- Ann Marie Byrd – Catholic Charities Eastern Washington
- Cecelia Fry, M.D. – Pediatric Intensivist
- Jill Lemon – Big Table
- Jim Mansfield