LYNNWOOD – At the February 25th, 2026 regularly scheduled monthly board meeting, Verdant commissioners appointed Alison Poulsen as superintendent, effective April 13th, 2026. Sarah Zabel will continue to serve as interim superintendent until that time.
April 13th, 2026. Sarah Zabel will continue to serve as interim superintendent until that time.
Poulsen brings more than twenty years of nonprofit leadership experience and a deep commitment to building healthier communities. Most recently, Poulsen served as President of Better Health Together, where she led a regional health collaborative that secured and distributed more than $100 million to improve care coordination and access to health services.
Her previous leadership roles include serving as CEO of WithinReach, and executive positions at NPower NW, SeattleWorks, VolunteerWorks, and the Federal Way Chamber of Commerce.
“On behalf of the board, we are delighted to have Alison lead Verdant in our next chapter. She brings a wealth of community health and nonprofit leadership experience that will help us in our mission to improve the health and well-being of South Snohomish County residents. Her proven ability to build strategic coalitions and navigate complex organizational evolutions makes her the perfect fit for our mission,” said Carolyn Brennan, Board President. “We would also like to express gratitude to outgoing interim Superintendent, Sarah Zabel for her leadership during this transition period.”
“I am honored to be appointed as Verdant Health Commission superintendent, and am excited to collaborate with commissioners, staff and community organizations to support our important mission”, Poulsen said. “My career has been dedicated to advancing community health, and I will work passionately to drive meaningful outcomes and ensure that Verdant continues to be a catalyst for positive change.”
Source: Verdant Health
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
