Among the latest in a recent wave of hires by the South Lincoln Hospital District (SLHD), Caitlyn Howard has taken the position of Marketing and Foundation Strategist for the company.

Howard spent her childhood in Trinidad, Colorado, eventually moving north to study English and marketing at the Pueblo campus of Colorado State University. “I lived there with my husband and sons for nine years.” The family repositioned a year ago when Howard’s husband accepted a Respiratory Therapy Supervisor position at SLHD.

“So far it’s been great,” said Howard, in reference to working at SLHD. “Everyone I’m working with is very friendly, and I’m enjoying the working environment at the hospital.” Howard’s work has aspects both within and outside of the hospital. “I handle marketing… working with our various departments to make sure our community is aware of all the services we provide.” Howard handles SLHD’s presence on social media as well. “Of course, I also keep the community up to date about what is going on in the hospital and about special events as they come up.”

The second facet of Howard’s job will be developing a foundation for the hospital, “which is still very much in its beginning stages.” Howard believes such a project will be a remarkable asset for the hospital and the community as SLHD moves forward.

Howard gained an interest in the marketing job when her husband recommended it to her. “He knew what the position was and what it entailed, and of course knew the work experience and education that I’ve had.” While Howard has never worked in a hospital, she has done a significant amount of marketing and PR work. “I have worked in the real estate industry, banking and education.” Howard knew her husband enjoyed his work at the hospital, so she liked the odds that she would also.

“This job incorporates a lot of things that I enjoy,” said Howard, “content creation, community relations, collaboration and event planning.” She said she looks forward to building relationships with the people of southern Lincoln County “especially at some of our events coming up.”  She is particularly excited to help plan the hospital’s annual health fair. “I hope to see a lot of people there and get a chance to meet many of them.” In reference to what she wants to achieve, Howard said, “Our hospital’s goal is to serve and fill the needs of the community we live in. That’s really what rural healthcare is about in general.”