San Antonio Water System

Theresa Rodriguez Scepanski is renowned as a dynamic health care leader for her unwavering commitment to advancing health access and improving community wellness. As president and chief executive officer at Community First Health Plans, Inc. (aka Community First), Scepanski continues to shape and expand health care services catering to diverse populations, especially those historically underserved.

After serving two terms as interim chief executive officer at Community First, Scepanski was appointed as president and chief executive officer in August 2020, where she drives innovative initiatives enhancing health outcomes and reducing disparities. These initiatives address Community First members’ unique needs, including expanded access to preventive care, mental health services and chronic disease management. Her strategic vision has created partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders, further amplifying Community First’s impact on the community. The innovative community initiatives Scepanski has led include the installation of 50 food pantries, the We Love our Southside mural, and Empowering Pathways: Entrepreneurship Scholarship Program and Empowering Pathways: Maternal Scholarship Program.

Her leadership style is characterized by empathy, collaboration and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Known for inspiring her team and fostering a culture of transformation and innovation, Scepanski has garnered recognition within the industry, including several honors highlighting her contributions to health equity and community engagement. These include Bexar County Medical Society’s 2024 Annual Women Leaders in Medicine, San Antonio Business Journal’s 2022 Health Care Heroes, Modern Health Care’s 2023 Top Diversity Leaders and 2023 Alamo Council of Government’s Community/Nonprofit of the Year.

Scepanski’s board work includes currently serving as chair of the State Medicaid Advisory Committee, vice chair of the regional Health Information Exchange, member of the Association for Community Affiliated Plans, Texas Association of Health Plans, Texas Association of Community Health Plans, Bexar County Health Collaborative and former chair for University Health’s annual United Way Campaign.

A native San Antonian, Scepanski earned a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communications from Texas State University and a Master of Arts in Human Resources Development with honors from Webster University. She began her career with University Health in 1995.