Welvista Names Ashley Hyman as Chief Executive Officer

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Welvista, a nonprofit that serves uninsured South Carolinians via its medication assistance pharmacy as well as meeting the dentistry needs of thousands of children across multiple counties, today announced the selection of Ashley Hyman as its next Chief Executive Officer.

A transformational healthcare executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience, Ashley Hyman brings a proven track record of organizational growth, operational excellence, strategic innovation, and mission-driven leadership. Most recently serving as Chief Operations Officer for Welvista, she has played a central role in strengthening the organization’s performance, expanding patient access, and positioning the organization for long-term sustainability.

Since joining Welvista as Chief Operations Officer in 2024, Ashley has been a critical member of the Welvista team and its effort to grow the number of clients being served via the MAPS and Smiles programs. 

“The Welvista Board’s CEO search included over 90 applicants, and throughout the selection process, the Board carefully considered the leadership qualities and strategic vision needed to guide Welvista into its next chapter”, said Board Chairman Michael Cunningham. “What we found in Ashley was a deep passion for serving vulnerable populations, coupled with a strong grasp of Welvista’s current operations and a clear vision for how the organization can continue to grow to meet the needs of South Carolinians.”

Prior to joining Welvista, Ashley Hyman served as Executive Director of The Heritage at Lowman with Lutheran Homes of South Carolina, where she oversaw a large continuing care retirement community, managed a $21 million annual budget, and led major expansion, quality improvement, and workforce development initiatives. During her tenure, she successfully reduced operating expenses, eliminated reliance on agency staffing, improved resident outcomes, and guided the organization through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier in her career, Ashley Hyman held progressive leadership positions with The Heritage at Lowman, where she built a reputation for innovation, revenue growth, business development, and program excellence. Her accomplishments included launching successful wellness initiatives, leading fundraising efforts, growing occupancy and revenue, and earning multiple industry recognitions, including the LeadingAge South Carolina Innovator of the Year Award.

“It is an honor to serve as Welvista’s next Chief Executive Officer,” said Ashley Hyman. “Welvista’s mission to improve health outcomes and ensure access to essential medications for underserved South Carolinians has never been more important. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated employees, partners, donors, and community stakeholders to build upon the organization’s strong foundation and expand our impact across the state.”

Ashley Hyman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from the University of North Georgia and was a licensed Nursing Home Administrator and Assisted Living Administrator. She currently serves on the Free Medical Clinic Association’s Board of Directors, the Association’s Strategic Planning and Public Policy Committee and has been actively involved in community and nonprofit leadership throughout her career.

Ashley will officially assume her responsibilities as CEO on October 1, 2026, after the retirement of Welvista’s current CEO, Juanita Wright