Hunter Health is pleased to welcome Joseph W. Shepard to the Hunter Health Board of Directors. Joseph serves as the Wichita City Council Member for District 1, representing one of the city’s most diverse and historic districts.
A dedicated public servant and community advocate, Joseph has built his career around advancing equitable access to opportunity through education, public policy, economic development, and community engagement.
A Commitment Shaped by Experience
Born into a military family and raised in Oklahoma, Joseph’s lived experiences with poverty and housing instability shaped his commitment to serving others. Those experiences also gave him a firsthand understanding of the systemic barriers that affect health and quality of life.
Joseph earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and a Master of Public Administration. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership.
A Career in Service
Before joining the Wichita City Council, Joseph held leadership roles in higher education, nonprofit organizations, and national service initiatives, including serving as Chief of Staff for Lead For America. Throughout his career, he has championed initiatives focused on youth engagement, affordable housing, workforce development, neighborhood revitalization, and health equity.
His work has earned numerous leadership and service honors, including recognition as a Wichita Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree and a Presidential Volunteer Service Award recipient.
Health Beyond the Exam Room
Joseph believes that public health extends far beyond clinical care. He sees it as deeply connected to housing, transportation, economic mobility, education, and public safety.
That belief has made him a strong advocate for cross-sector partnerships that address the social determinants of health and create healthier outcomes for all residents. It’s a perspective that aligns closely with Hunter Health’s mission to provide care that meets the whole person where they are.a
Welcome to the Board
As Hunter Health celebrates 50 years of wellness in our community, we are honored to have Joseph join the Hunter Health Board. His passion for building a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive Wichita will help guide our work for years to come.
Please join us in welcoming Joseph Shepard to the Hunter Health family!