Monday night’s Governing Board Christmas Dinner was an opportunity to pause and recognize a remarkable chapter of service by Rebecca Hillane Lambert.
Hillane has served as the Health Service Administrator Representative on the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority Governing Board from July 1, 2009 through November 25, 2025. Over sixteen years, her leadership helped guide a health system created by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to serve the public interest and provide oversight, direction, and
accountability for community health.
Throughout her tenure, Hillane brought steady, thoughtful governance to every role she held. She was a strong advocate for high-quality medical care designed to meet the unique needs of this community. Her work on the Quality Committee supported the development and implementation of system-wide quality improvement initiatives. On the Finance Committee, she contributed meaningfully to financial oversight, budgeting, and long-term fiscal planning that strengthened organizational sustainability.
Hillane was also a consistent and persistent voice for mental health services, particularly for vulnerable populations. During the dinner, CIHA CEO Casey Cooper specifically recognized her relentless advocacy in behavioral health, crediting her leadership as a driving force behind the continuum of care that Cherokee has today. She continually elevated the needs of children and other vulnerable populations, helping expand programs and services that respond to their unique health and social challenges.
As a nurse, leader, and public servant, Hillane committed her time, expertise, and reputation to the success of the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority, bringing integrity and purpose to the work of the Board.
Her service leaves a lasting impact on the health system and on generations to come. The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority is grateful for her commitment and the legacy she leaves behind.