Vermont Foodbank Welcomes Jeffrey Tieman to Board of Directors

March 19th, 2018– The Vermont Foodbank’s Board of Directors unanimously elected Jeffrey Tieman, president and CEO of Vermont Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (VAHHS),  as a new board member, to serve a three-year term.

“Tieman brings a unique perspective from the health care industry that will be valuable as the Vermont Foodbank works to address the intersection of hunger and health,” says Vermont Foodbank CEO, John Sayles. “We are thrilled to welcome him to our Board of Directors and eager to employ his expertise to ensure better nutrition and health for all Vermonters.”

In his role as president and CEO of VAHHS, Tieman leads the association, which represents Vermont’s not for profit hospitals, as hospitals advance initiatives to support providers and patients and build healthy communities. His role focuses on carrying out their strategic vision, as well as in managing its advocacy, member relations and public affairs work.

“Hospitals are focusing more and more on the social determinants of health as we strive to transform health care in Vermont,” says Tieman. “As we work to keep people healthy, our patients also need access to affordable housing, employment and healthy food. We must address a person’s basic human needs – shelter, clothing and food—if we intend to create a vibrant, healthy Vermont.”

Prior to his work with VAHHS, Jeff served as chief of staff of the Catholic Health Association in Washington, D.C., where he led the organization’s messaging work on health reform and the Affordable Care Act. Earlier in his career, Jeff spent two years as Washington Bureau Chief for Modern Healthcare magazine after covering several beats for the weekly publication out of its Chicago office.

In his new role as a Vermont Foodbank board member, Tieman will help steer the Foodbank in its work to ensure that no one in Vermont will go hungry.

“I am honored and excited to join the Board of the Foodbank,” shares Tieman. “I look forward to learning more about the organization’s great work and the role I hope to play in advancing their mission.”