Anna Iacobelli's connection to Joseph Brant Hospital runs deep. Born at JBH herself, the hospital has cared for her entire family—her parents, grandmother, and even her nieces and great-nieces were brought into the world. "It's my hospital," she shares.
Anna's commitment began in 1990 when she started volunteering in the ICU while working full-time at TD. During a challenging economic period, she felt compelled to make a difference. She later joined the JBH Foundation in September 2016 and the JBH Hospital Board in September 2022, where she currently serves as the Chair of the Digital Health Strategy Committee and Co-Chair of the Human Resource Policy & Compensation Committee. “I wanted to give back to my community as this is the hospital that will provide care for me and my family as we get older."
For those considering board service, Anna emphasizes the rewarding and impactful nature of the experience. Board members have the ability to influence healthcare decisions by shaping policies, strategic direction, and operational priorities. They support community health initiatives that improve access, quality, and equity in healthcare delivery.
"You can leverage your expertise – whether you have experience in quality and patient safety, diversity, equity and inclusion or finance (CPA/CA), your skills can help the hospital navigate challenges, manage risks and plan for the future," Anna explains. "You can drive innovation and change by advocating for innovative technologies, patient-centered care models, or initiatives that improve hospital efficiency and outcomes."
Anna treasures having a voice at the table —knowing her experience matters and that she can make a real impact. "I love that I am helping shape the vision and strategy of an organization that directly affects people's lives," she says. "We have a direct effect on community health – we are part of initiatives that improve access to care and enhance hospital services."
Among her proudest accomplishments, Anna initiated a partnership between the JBH Foundation and TD for International Women's Day that has been running since 2019. "We've raised money for multiple areas of the hospital and this year for Mental Health," Anna shares proudly. She also successfully guided the JBH Foundation board as Chair during the challenging COVID-19 period.
For Anna, the most rewarding aspect of board service is driving meaningful change. "Being in a position where your insights and decisions can help shape an organization's future provides a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. You collaborate with a diverse group of leaders influencing strategic direction and making a difference in your community," reflects Anna. "You become a role model for your colleagues in helping them realize that they too can make an impact."
Interested candidates can submit a completed application, Cover Letter and CV by Friday, April 11, 2025, to board.candidate@josephbranthospital.ca.