Kotek Appoints Former Opponent Betsy Johnson to OHSU Board

SALEM, Ore. — Governor Tina Kotek has announced more than 100 appointments to Oregon’s state boards and commissions, a list that includes several former lawmakers — and one of her most notable political rivals.

Johnson Joins OHSU Board

Among those appointed is Betsy Johnson, a longtime legislator and independent candidate who ran against Kotek in the 2022 governor’s race. Johnson has been selected to serve on the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) board, a role she says she is honored to accept.

“I was delighted that (Kotek) thinks I can make a contribution at really a very important time in OHSU’s history,” Johnson said Monday.

Johnson noted her long history with the institution, both as a patient and as a supporter. She has served on boards for the OHSU Foundation and Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, and she was previously tapped by Kotek to help lead the university’s presidential search committee.

Kotek’s spokesperson Lucas Bezerra praised Johnson’s past contributions, calling her work on the search “invaluable.” He added, “Betsy knows OHSU well, and Oregon is lucky to have her continued dedication to public service.”

Challenges Facing OHSU

Johnson steps onto the board at a time of turbulence for the state’s flagship health institution. In recent years, OHSU has faced:

Allegations against prominent doctors involving harassment and misconduct.
The collapse of a high-profile merger with Legacy Health.
The sudden resignation of former president Dr. Danny Jacobs, whose tenure ended amid faculty dissatisfaction and a no-confidence vote.

In July, the board named Dr. Shereef Elnahal as OHSU’s new president. Johnson said she is eager to see him guide the hospital through “some pretty challenging times.”

OHSU is also navigating significant financial hurdles, having projected a $114 million operating loss at the close of its last fiscal year. Potential federal cuts to research and safety net programs add further uncertainty.

Still, major philanthropic commitments, such as Phil and Penny Knight’s $2 billion pledge to fund cancer research, offer the university an opportunity to rebuild momentum. Johnson expressed optimism, saying OHSU has the chance to set “a new tone with a younger, very bold leader.”

Johnson’s Approach

Known for her blunt style during her years in the Legislature, Johnson said her approach will remain the same in her new role.

“I earned my reputation as a straight shooter who demands accountability,” she said. “I don’t see anything changing with this new set of responsibilities.”

Other Key Appointments

In addition to Johnson, Governor Kotek announced several other appointments of former lawmakers:

Michael Dembrow, former Democratic state senator and education advocate from Portland, was named to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission.
Lee Beyer, a Springfield Democrat, was reappointed to the Oregon Transportation Commission.
Cheri Helt, a Republican from Bend and former state representative, was named to the Oregon Government Ethics Commission.

These appointments reflect Kotek’s effort to draw on the experience of seasoned public servants as Oregon faces critical challenges in healthcare, education, transportation, and ethics oversight.