Ellen Bauer serves as Chief Administrative Officer at West County Health Centers, bringing over 35 years of healthcare experience and a passion for nurturing human potential. With a Ph.D. in Health Services and Policy Analysis from Stanford University, she specializes in cross-sector collaboration and collective action, successfully leading various health system innovations at local, state, and national levels.
Ellen’s commitment to building healthy relationships and fostering community connection stems from her San Diego roots and deeply influences her leadership approach. She excels at finding silver linings in challenging situations and brings this optimistic perspective to her role at WCHC, where she has served for four years.
A lifelong learner and nature enthusiast, Ellen can often be found tinkering in her garden, hiking local trails, or immersing herself in books on diverse topics. Her mission to “nurture the life potential in myself and others” guides both her professional leadership and personal pursuits.