Recognizing and honoring Maria Pajil Battle on the occasion of her retirement as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Marketing for Keystone First.

WHEREAS, During thirty-five (35) years of distinguishing herself in the health-care industry Maria Pajil Battle has often been recognized as a “Game Changer” always going above and beyond expectations; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Battle didn’t believe in waiting for people to come to health care, but would rather find ways to take health care to the people, often arranging transportation for those attending programs and events; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Battle has been a committed leader in the community helping to fight against diseases such as asthma, obesity, diabetes, breast cancer and high blood pressure, diseases which disproportionately impact minority and low-income communities; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Battle consistently increased sales while working on the marketing side of Medicaid-managed care by being very innovative, but her true passion was displayed when she was able to change the lives and lifestyle of others; and

WHEREAS, As a result of her hard work and dedication, Ms. Battle became an expert in strategic planning by designing and implementing effective media plans. She has offered these skills to her community and goes far and beyond the role of many executive professionals; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Battle currently serves on the boards of W

omen Organized Against Rape (WOAR), Intercultural Family Services, Girls Scouts of Southeastern Pennsylvania as well as serving on the Advisory Boards of Fox Chase Cancer Center and Bridging the Gaps; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Battle is the president of the AmeriHealth Caritas Partnership a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing health equity to all. During her tenure she led an important lifestyle and healthcare initiative to encourage young people to exercise more by raising funds to build twenty-four (24) playgrounds, sixteen (16) of which are located in the City of Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, Conducting evidence-based health programs and collaborating with many different organizations is a hallmark of Ms. Battle’s commitment to making lasting and positive change. As an active retiree Ms. Battle will continue to work on the behalf of disadvantaged and undeserved communities; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes and honors Maria Pajil Battle on her retirement as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Marketing for Keystone First,

punctuated by her most recent position as president of the AmeriHealth Caritas Partnership.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Maria Pajil Battle as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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