Elise Cutter, MBA, was named Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Island Health in 2021. Formerly Island Health’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Cutter has risen through the ranks, recognized throughout her years of service to the organization as a leader dedicated to the mission of providing the best healthcare to the residents of Skagit County Public Hospital District, No 2. Throughout her tenure, Cutter was named Island Hospital Employee of the Year and she received the coveted Island Hospital Management Leadership Award. In 2013, Cutter took on the CFO role, and under her leadership significantly increased the hospital’s cash reserves while spearheading initiatives to save hospital and taxpayer dollars. In 2020, as Chief Operating Officer, Cutter readied the organization to address the COVID-19 pandemic, standing up emergency operations, including both testing and vaccination clinics. Under her leadership, Island Health was one of the first healthcare entities in the region to offer vaccinations. Cutter was named Washington State’s 2025 “Community Star,” awarded by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health to recognize outstanding contributions to rural healthcare. Cutter is a visionary leader who has strengthened Island Health through innovation, workforce development and community engagement.

Cutter received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Villanova University and obtained a Master of Business Administration with a focus in Healthcare Management from Western Governors University. Cutter is committed to improving healthcare access in our hospital district, ensuring the health and sustainability of the organization through staff development and retention efforts, and providing the best experience for patients at Island Health.