Ruth Lee
Ruth Lee
Empowering Health through Strategic Marketing Excellence
In response to the evolving healthcare landscape and increasing competition, healthcare organizations recognized the need to strengthen their marketing efforts. Consequently, they started hiring marketing personnel to strategically promote their services, engage with patients, and build strong brand identities, ultimately improving patient outreach and driving organizational success. Thus, in this dynamic and competitive industry, a skilled Chief Marketing Officer can make a significant impact on the organization’s success.
Thereby, laying a bright spotlight on one standout CMO – Ruth Lee holds this esteemed position at CareSTL Health, proving herself as a go-to marketing genius, adept at navigating the unique challenges of healthcare marketing. With her visionary approach, she has implemented innovative marketing strategies that have not only increased brand recognition for CareSTL Health but also fostered strong connections with and for the community.
Ruth Lee’s strategic mindset, coupled with her deep understanding of the healthcare industry, has positioned her as a valuable asset for CareSTL Health. Her dedication to promoting healthcare services and improving health outcomes has made her an influential figure in the field. As the CMO, Ruth Lee continues to demonstrate her expertise, driving the organization’s marketing efforts forward and cementing CareSTL Health’s position as a leader in the healthcare community.
CareSTL Health in a Nutshell
CareSTL Health, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or Community Health Center (CHC), is a community-based healthcare system dedicated to providing medical care to underserved, underinsured, and uninsured populations. As an FQHC, CareSTL Health receives funding from the federal government’s Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This funding enables the organization to offer comprehensive healthcare and social services, and maintain a patient-centric board of directors.
1968 saw the inception of a committed board of directors, leading to the rich origins of CareSTL Health. One notable benchmark was achieved in 1969, as it was formally chartered. The extensive array of primary care services offered currently, owes much to the steadfast and resolute stewardship of former Chief Executive Directors. Included in CareSTL Health’s articles of incorporation is a tribute to its esteemed founders, among them notable figures like William Danforth and Ina Boon. Prior to her passing in 2017, Ina Boon was a respected champion of racial equality and held a leadership position in the NAACP’s regional division. Her legacy, undeniably profound, continues to inspire. Today, the organization is run by current CEO, Angela Clabon who has dramatically improved patient access points expanding to four locations and implemented behavioral health and chiropractic services. Under her leadership, the organization is currently building a 46,000-square-foot health center with 120 senior or low-income housing units for residents.
From the Scratch
“Healthcare for all individuals regardless of social & economic status is and has always been a passion of mine”, exclaims Ruth Lee. Also, coming from a non-privileged background eventually pushed her towards a profession where she could make a difference in the lives of the underprivileged. Thus, over two decades ago, Ruth Lee embarked on a journey of community service when she was invited to be one of the four founders of Académie Lafayette (AL), a highly successful public immersion charter school. AL was the first charter school approved in the state of Missouri and she was the first African American who was a founder of such. Ruth’s commitment to the school was evident as she dedicated two years as Vice President and an impressive eight years as the President of the Board. Moreover, Ruth’s vision was to expand the school’s curriculum to include Mandarin and Spanish languages which eventually was implemented. The school also takes a 2 week immersion trip to Belgium and Africa for students in the 6th and 8th grade respectively. Even today, Ruth continues to contribute to AL as an ex-officio board member, playing a pivotal role in event planning and serving as a strategy consultant for the Board of Directors. None of the founders were ever compensated for their work, but rather led out of passion for free public education that marveled private schools and for Ruth an additional passion to provide exposure for students who looked like her.
Ms. Lee, operating as the current Chief Marketing & Development Officer at CareSTL Health, has an impressive background that reflects her skillset. Her previous titles include CEO of Connections to Success & Dress for Success STL & KC, which focuses on equipping women with the right tools and support systems to attain economic independence. She also held the positions of Chief Development Officer at the Little Bit Foundation and Director/Public Information Officer at the Hickman Mills C-1 School District in Kansas City, MO, prior to joining the CareSTL Health team.
Nationwide, Ms. Lee has spent over 20 years in nonprofit leadership, gaining remarkable expertise and knowledge in various markets. She is skilled in corporate marketing, communications, fundraising strategies, and public relations. Ms. Lee’s professional accomplishments are a testament to her ability to merge creative talents with solid business acumen, resulting in the development of multifaceted, cost-effective, and market-appropriate programs that drive profitability for every organization she has served.
As the CMO
As the Chief Marketing and Development Officer, Ruth Lee’s primary responsibility is to lead and manage the planning, execution, and evaluation of marketing, communication, community relations, media relations, and digital strategies for CareSTL Health. Additionally, she also oversees the application, management, and reporting of grant funding, as well as implementing fundraising initiatives to secure financial support from various sources.
Astonishingly all thanks to the hard work put in by her and the marketing team, in just 8 months of her service at CareSTL Health, Ruth Lee has accomplished significant marketing milestones, including building a team of experts to launch awareness for the health center and attract more patients. By collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, such as employees and patients, she and her team ensure accurate and timely messaging that drives action.
Since joining CareSTL Health team in October 2022, her key achievements include staying on track to achieve a remarkable 265.3% increase in funding compared to the annual goal, witnessing a substantial increase in website sessions and implementing targeted branding campaigns to showcase CareSTL Health’s services and dedicated employees. As evident, under her capable leadership, CareSTL has achieved a significant 48.48% increase in top website rankings, indicating improved online visibility, 132% increase in Facebook followers, and a notable 41% increase in LinkedIn followers. Together with her Director of Development, Sherry Nelson Thomas an impressive 893% increase in funding compared to previous years was achieved through the St. Louis wide city giving day, GiveSTL Day thanks to generous donors.
While facing the challenge of simultaneously building and operating the organization, as the CMO Ruth Lee’s focus is always to re-engage and nurture their customer base, and gain the necessary status to reach patients and donors locally, regionally, and nationally. The development department of CareSTL Health has set a goal of $3 million for 2023, and Ruth is confidently on track to surpass that, aiming for $10.95 million. In fact, corporate sponsorships in 2023 have already doubled compared to 2022.
Towards Greater Goals
When our correspondents at the Victory Magazine asked Ruth Lee on CareSTL Health’s plans to expand and improve the healthcare services offered in the coming years, she shared – “Currently CareSTL Health is about 18 months from opening a new health center, The Ville Wellness Campus”. She elaborated on how the Ville Wellness Campus will be a $34M, 46,000 sq. ft. building that will include a drive thru pharmacy, expanded behavioral health services, enhanced radiology services, outside courtyard, walking trail, and many more services. She also spoke about how the new campus will be the new corporate headquarters of the health center with the ability to serve over 11,000 new patients and create approximately 288 jobs, some of which will come from the surrounding community and from their returning population (previously incarcerated individuals) as well.
The new health center will allow CareSTL Health to expand its mission in St. Louis, along with allowing the facility to provide necessary services and treatment programs, to a much underserved and historically African American population of the North St. Louis community.
Knowing Ruth Lee
Residing in Florissant, MO, Ms. Lee shares her home with her husband, Reginald Lee, who is the Principal of D. Laniger Transportation and her youngest son, Bryce Terrell, a relationship banker for Royal Banks of Missouri. Her family also includes her daughter, Danielle Coleman, an attorney residing in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and her son, Hamilton Terrell III, who resides in Kansas City, MO working in the packaging and delivery industry for UPS. Notably, all of her children are graduates of Academie Lafayette. Ms. Lee’s educational background includes a BA in Communications from UMKC and an Executive MBA from Rockhurst University.
Company
CareSTL Health
Management
Ruth Lee
Chief Marketing Officer
Description
CareSTL Health is a Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs or a Community Health Center -CHC). We are a community based healthcare system that provides medical care to underserved, underinsured, and uninsured populations.
Read Magazine
View more profiles
Over the past two decades, Mónica has steadily advanced through various positions within the supply chain field.
Paul is the executive sponsor for the Customer Operations department, where, together with the team.
Her current focus lies in mentorship, alongside her passion for strategizing and business development.
Noëlle Demole's perseverance and dedication to bringing about social change are shown by her path to founding EGIDAYS.
Michelle Fiegehen, an Australian senior director currently based in the Philippines, leads and develops Yempo’s operations.
As the Global Communications Director at Kushki, Eva oversees all internal and external communications
Cindy Eggleton values relationships deeply, dedicating much of her time to friends and family. She has a passion for art and unique local businesses..
Complete Framing Solutions stands out from the competition due to its comprehensive approach to construction.
Sally Estlin embraces a powerful mantra guiding her through life's ebbs and flows: Let go, Step up, and Be more.
Tara Home Consulting distinguishes itself by not only advising on what needs to be done or which software to buy but by deeply integrating into the client's company.
Rick also believes that successful collaboration entails active engagement, empathy, accountability and a readiness to work towards common objectives.
In his role as CFO of Purple Brand, Jonathan Melegrito leads both the Finance and People & Culture teams
Beyond his professional pursuits, Jesse's passion for speed and racing defined much of his youth.
Jack Sharp oversees every aspect of Progressive Screens, from product design to nurturing the company culture.
Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions prioritizes a meticulous approach with each patient, emphasizing quality over quantity.
Earth Retention captured Malia's attention due to the opportunity to address real challenges and implement meaningful changes within the company.
Grace's involvement in implementation projects for strategic clients sparked her interest in the "Field Organization," where she ...
Carina and her staff are essential components of a worldwide family, having joined Hosts Global with pride.
Angela Cherry firmly believes that as long as one is alive, there are endless opportunities for learning and self-improvement.
Beyond her professional avatar as a Boss Woman, Margot is a hardcore pleasure seeker at heart. Anything which guides her away from the mundane way of life,
Valerie Berthereaux feels incredibly fortunate to have a loving and supportive family and friends. Her two children bring her immense pride,
Balancing her personal life with her role as a transformative coach, Jennifer practices what she teaches. She remains true to her values, recognizing the essential.
Passionate about healthy living, Patricia Berrocal, an advocate for balanced well-being, finds joy in activities such as sports, yoga, and skiing.
Committed to both personal and professional development, Paula prioritizes continuous learning to enhance her performance and capabilities.
With a steadfast vision for advancing along this path, Winnie sought counsel from seasoned entrepreneurs.
Renée Dobos has a profound personal connection with the transformative power of education.
From a young age, Christine McGuire drew inspiration from her parents' strong work ethic.
Caroline Alan, not hailing from a scientific or medical background but rather from the tech realm,
In his daily pursuit, James focuses on incremental success, acknowledging that small achievements compound over time.
Frank and his team’s philosophy is to treat the rest of the organization as their clients, and themselves as a key service provider to the company.
At Doppelmayr, Daniela Guerrero has emerged as a trailblazer in this movement.
As a young cross-country skier, Viktoria traveled extensively during weekends for competitions across Finland.
Veronica Boh, a Malaysian of Chinese heritage, spent the early years of her life in the UK, Germany, and Taiwan, returning to Malaysia at the age of five.
Ms. van Teeffelen's early years were truly remarkable, marked by her upbringing as an expatriate child.
Nicole Mauthe was born in November 1978 in a small village in Bavaria, Germany, as the daughter of a carpenter and a technical draughtswoman.
Born and raised in Vienna, Austria, Nicole Lehrer's upbringing already shaped her groundwork for her future mission.
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Amber entered the world to a courageous teenage mother who believed that entrusting her child to a more prepared family was the best course of action.
Amidst the vast digital highways of submarine cables, a standout luminary emerges in the exciting world of modern telecommunications.
Persuaded by her experience, Laurel Sim decided to partner with Taleo during a crucial point in her career.
The expertise and guidance of CTOs are vital for companies as they navigate the complexities of the modern digital era.
Luke Marchant stated that his love of technology was sparked at a young age while reflecting on his journey.
Caio Almeida, a pioneer in the field of creative technology, serves as the Chief Technology Officer of OPTO CREATIVE LAB INC.
Tristan McKinney envisions a future for Sofi Exploration that encompasses relentless growth and adaptability.
Being that person who was always interested in sports since his early years, Mike Edwards was appointed as a red shirt for his University Basketball team.
In his role as COO, Kevin has been involved in various aspects, from overseeing expansions into new territories to crafting employee benefit plans.
Dominic Haas leads a youthful and dynamic team at Legacy Network, setting the tone for a culture steeped in growth and entrepreneurial mindset right from inception.
The crucial role played by specialty pharmacy has never been more evident in a time of unheard medical discoveries.
In recent years, there has been an incredible growth in the number of high-quality real estate firms operating worldwide.
During her tenure at the Firm, Ana has assumed diverse roles, finding particular fulfillment through her active participation.
Ana O. Ramirez has vital direct knowledge of the particular requirements of Rhisco’s target market.
As the Director Principal Alison ensures that the workspace is a testament to their ...
Beyond her work at Bonjour et co., Alexandra Kemp leads a social and active lifestyle.
Robert SEREC, the CEO and visionary founder of the White Hydrogen Coalition, is in charge of the organization.
Lorri Haines finds himself amidst the bustling dynamics of a new addition to the household—a baby that has added a layer of busyness to his days.
Under Gert J. Roselt’s leadership, Probe Integrated Mining Technologies has successfully built a dynamic team and a robust network.
Technology offers limitless prospects for Daniel Pizon, a tech fanatic driven by an insatiable quest for innovation and progress.
Scott Berry assumes responsibility for overseeing the agency's service offerings and pricing strategies.
Roger Clements, the driving force behind the marketing and strategy function at Matrix, emphasizes that the measure of success for both himself and his team is crystal clear.
In his marketing strategy, Ori Matarasso places a strong emphasis on executing campaigns at a very specialized level.
Lars feels incredibly privileged to be a member of a remarkably prosperous company that has experienced extraordinary achievements in recent times
Benedikt Grass, who holds the position of Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at PassportCard Deutschland GmbH.
A Chinese National by origin, Celina Shi has been living in the UK for the past 13 years. She began her career in Motorola as the Team Lead.
Allan can easily be described as a serial entrepreneur, constantly devising novel solutions to various problems
Alexander Koenig started his career as a consultant at the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and McKinsey & Co.
As the Managing Director, Mr. McKenna sees himself as a coach who motivates and inspires others.
Prudence Masako faced numerous challenges during her career, but two stood out.
As a co-founder, Ms. Lauren’s main objectives include staying abreast of the latest developments and trends in the education industry.
As a young adult fresh out of college, Kathi Klawitter was eager but unsure of her path.
Anna-Maria Hoffmann oversees the company's efforts to satisfy the mass of orders despite the exclusive and restrictive distribution of the luxury industry.
As a female leader and the CEO of censhare, Esther Donatz believes in creating an environment where all women have the opportunity to succeed.
Zaher El Houssari always begins with a written plan, aiming to minimize unnecessary expenses and prioritize short-term goals.
Yeliz Kalafat's leadership in financial management has been instrumental in driving the company's growth and success.
As the Group CFO for the NIRAS Group, Ms. Christensen is tasked with overseeing the group support functions.
Nicolas Dupont ensures that all the lodges and activities in Vaolo’s inventory have undergone a rigorous 15-point evaluation process
As the Chief Financial Officer, one of Lee’s primary responsibilities is to oversee OnlyFans vast payments network and manage its financial risk exposures.
Henriksson has been with Eton Shirts since 2019 and has been instrumental in leading the brand's financial strategy
As CFO, Couture has been instrumental in overseeing the financial operations of the company, implementing cost-saving measures, and driving profitable growth.
Nadir Causholli has distinguished himself as a dynamic and forward-thinking leader, propelling CFO Pharma to new heights of excellence.
As the CEO of Aparavi Software, Gregor Bieler is leading the company towards change by emphasizing the importance of data management in today's business landscape.
Making remarkable contributions to the software industry, today women leaders are managing some of the most innovative and successful software companies .......
Dr. Eric Leire, the CEO of Genflow Biosciences, is one such leader. He dedicates himself to the development of novel gene-based therapeutics
Vladimir Stulančák venture into this field started in the year 2009, when he was looking for a change from the automotive industry, where he had served for a good amount of time.
Just like any other entrepreneur, for Chris - starting his very own skincare brand has been both the most fulfilling and nerve-wracking experience of his life.
Richard Sarti heads the operations at NODES as the CEO, who is known for his quick yet effective decisions
Dr. Marine Hadengue grew up in the Caribbean Islands and spent more than 15 years residing in Canada and the United States before relocating to the South of France.
A leader in the field of software development should possess a diverse range of skills and qualities to stay ahead in the highly competitive market.
Delmar Assis, who as the CEO of DRZ Corporation is converting regular companies to well-performing data-driven companies.
Peter Nagy is focusing on creating outstanding RPG games, which aligns with his long-standing dream of creating immersive fantasy worlds and adventures.
Edwin Elias is the current Chief Executive Officer of Morupule Coal Mine (MCM) - Botswana, which has a rich history of over 40+ years.
The Entrepreneur's Source (TES) has been the sole Career Ownership Coaching organization for more than 38 years, offering education,
Professor Petro Terblanche has a successful track record in the strategic and operational management of technology intensive organizations.
Martha Shwartz is a founding partner of Martha Shwartz Partners (MSP), a leading international design practice whose work focuses on regenerating,
As the current Vice President and an Executive Board Member of UDN Group, Ms. Cynthia Huang has earned a name for herself as a manager
