The Community Health Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Derion Schieber as its new Executive Director, effective July 21, 2025. With a strong background in leadership and administration, Schieber brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the organization’s mission of improving health in Kay County. She will be replacing Kelli Northcutt who has served as Executive Director since 2018.

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Schieber holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration – Management and a Minor in Business Sustainability. She has served as a Board Member for Ponca City Mainstreet since 2021 and as Board Member and President of the OSU Alumni Chapter for Kay County. In these roles, Schieber has been committed to fostering strong connections, supporting families, and raising funds for scholarships, advocating for downtown revitalization and collaborated on initiatives to enhance community wellbeing. Schieber also owns and operates two local businesses – The Farm House Kids Co. and The Harvest Hall where she has had a strong community-centered approach. Schieber believes deeply in the power of strong partnerships, grassroots leadership, and mission-driven strategy.

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“The Board for the Community Health Foundation is excited to welcome Derion as Executive Director,” said Stephanie Austin, Chair of the Board of Directors. “We know the organization will continue to thrive and grow just as it has done with Kelli Northcutt at the helm. In Kelli’s time as Executive Director, she has grown the Foundation exponentially and we know that Derion is the right person to continue that role.”

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In her new role, Schieber will oversee operations and will build on the Foundation’s commitment to promoting health in Kay County through the Foundation’s grant program, community education, and scholarship awards.

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Schieber shared that her “passion for making a difference in Kay County runs deep. During Ponca City Leadership, Class 38, the Nonprofit Day left a lasting impression on me. It gave me a firsthand look at the incredible work organizations like the Community Health Foundation are doing. The work truly matters and I’m honored to now be part of it and help carry it forward. Kelli has done a tremendous job leading this organization and has set a high bar. I’m eager to continue her spirit of enthusiasm, optimism, and commitment to creating positive change that improves lives across our community. I’m especially passionate about mental health, access to quality healthcare, and advancing health and wellness initiatives across Kay County. I also care deeply about supporting scholarships for students pursuing higher education in healthcare – particularly in rural communities like ours where those professionals are greatly needed. My vision for the Community Health Foundation is to help build a healthier Kay County – one where preventable illnesses like heart disease and diabetes are reduced, and where both physical and mental health are community priorities. I’m committed to expanding education and outreach for youth, emphasizing total well-being from a young age. I’m excited to get out in the community and begin tackling some of the highest needs facing our county. There’s important work to be done, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead that work forward.”

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Please join us in welcoming Derion Schieber to the Community Health Foundation. An Open House will be held on Thursday, July 31 from 11 am to 1 pm at The Harvest Hall at 201 N. 2nd Street, where community members are invited to meet the new Executive Director and learn more about the Foundation’s work.

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About Community Health Foundation:
The Community Health Foundation of Kay County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of the citizens of Kay County through grants, education, scholarships, and partnerships. This year the Foundation has awarded $34,000 in scholarships and provided more than $170,000 in grants to organizations such as NERA, Survivor Resource Network, United Way’s Drug Store, NOYS’ Family Resource Program, Dearing House, CityArts, CASA for Kids, Infant Crisis Services, Kay County’s Oklahoma Regional Food Bank’s food programs, and more. To learn more about the Foundation, visit chfkayco.com.