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WASHINGTON (May 1, 2025) — The ���������� Association (AHA) today announced that Phyllis Cowling, former president and CEO of United Regional Health Care System in Wichita Falls, Texas, will be awarded its 2025 Board of Trustees Award. The Board of Trustees Award is presented to individuals or groups who have made substantial and noteworthy contributions to the work of the AHA on behalf of the hospital field. Cowling will receive the award during a May 5 ceremony at the AHA Annual Membership Meeting in Washington, D.C.

As president and CEO of United Regional Health Care System for over two decades, Cowling led transformation of the organization, improving staff engagement and patient care while also expanding services and facilities within its service area of nine counties in north central Texas. Cowling retired from her role earlier this year. Prior to leading United Regional, Cowling served as chief financial officer for multiple hospitals and health systems over 18 years. She also served as the 2002-2003 national chair of the Healthcare Financial Management Association.

“Phyllis has had an incredible career as a leading voice in health care, making a significant difference for the patients and communities she has served,” said Rick Pollack, AHA President and CEO. “The AHA and the hospital field have benefited tremendously from her humble approach and sharp operational skills. Moreover, she is an accomplished leader and strategic thinker whose contributions to advancing excellence have benefited not just her organization but the entire health care field.”

Cowling has been involved with the AHA in various roles, including as chair of Regional Policy Board 7, chair of the Operations Committee, the Executive Committee and other committees and task forces. In addition, Cowling led the AHA membership in the courts as United Regional filed as plaintiff in AHA’s successful litigation against HHS’s Office of Civil Rights’ online tracking rules. Cowling also served as chair of the Board of Trustees for the Texas Hospital Association in 2018.

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