Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center Welcomes Distinguished Governing Board Member

Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (January 7, 2016) — Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center appoints Sharon J. Merchant, president of The Merchant Strategy, Inc., as a new governing board member. The board is responsible for monitoring, evaluating and continually improving the hospital’s quality and safety of care.

Merchant brings over 33 years of both public and private sector experiences as a former Member of the Florida House of Representatives. Throughout her legislative career, she also served as chair of the Appropriations Committee on Transportation and Economic Development, the Juvenile Justice Committee, the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation, and vice chair of the Utilities and Telecommunication Committee and the Republican Caucus.

“On behalf of the administrative team, we are pleased to have Sharon join an exceptional group of leaders on our governing board,” said CEO Jeffrey M. Welch. “Her diverse experience will provide insight and prospective to the hospital and help us achieve our mission of meeting the healthcare needs of the community.”

Merchant’s commitment to the community is expressed through her service on the board of the South Florida Fair, Chair of Grassy Waters Preserve, and past Regent of the Palm Beach DAR Chapter. She has received awards and recognitions by many diverse groups such as the Florida Chamber of Commerce, six-time winner of the Roll Call Award (given to the top 40 legislators), Nature Conservancy Legislator of the Year, Gulfstream Goodwill Industries Award for Dedication, Association of General Contractors of America for Outstanding Service, and numerous others. Merchant is the President of The Merchant Strategy, Inc., a woman owned and operated consulting business specializing in government relations, public involvement, and event production.

Merchant earned a bachelor’s degree in international affairs, with minors in Spanish and business at Florida State University in Tallahassee.