Remembering Board Director Arthur Shorr: A Life of Service in Healthcare

Arthur Shorr, who dedicated more than 40 years of his career to hospital management and healthcare administration, died on February 8.

Director Shorr (pictured) successfully expanded his commitment to advancing wellness by donating his time and exceptional knowledge to the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation, first as a volunteer on the Finance and Administration Committee and then as a Board Director. 

He was appointed to the Board in 2019 to fill a vacant seat in zone five. Coachella Valley voters then elected Director Shorr in 2020 and again in 2024. He resigned from the Board on Nov. 30, 2025. 

"From the very beginning of Director Shorr’s service as a volunteer community member on the District’s Finance and Administration Committee to his six years on the Board of Directors, he consistently provided a unique and passionate perspective to serving the District’s mission and vision," said Chris Christensen, Desert Healthcare District & Foundation CEO. "He was also a mentor and a source of support and encouragement in my career at the District & Foundation. Thank you, Director Shorr. You will be missed." 

During his Board service, Director Shorr was an insightful proponent of the District & Foundation's leadership in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, launching a mobile medical clinic program, and negotiating a 30-year lease-purchase agreement with Tenet Healthcare for Desert Regional Medical Center. His approach to health and wellness matters often included a curiosity and respect for technological advances, including the evolving role of artificial intelligence. 

"Arthur believed deeply in improving healthcare access and delivery for the Coachella Valley and was never afraid to think ahead about what the future of healthcare could look like," said Kimberly Barraza, Desert Healthcare District & Foundation Board President. "Whether helping move important initiatives forward or contributing thoughtful insight to long-term planning, Arthur led with purpose and conviction. He will be remembered not only for his leadership, but for his discipline and dedication to the community. Our hearts are with his wife, Nancy, and their family as we honor the meaningful legacy he leaves behind." 

Director Shorr also contributed to the District & Foundation's current strategic plan and supported creating the next five-year plan, which is in development. He was proud of the organization's mission and his part in realizing it. 

In his resignation letter to Mr. Christensen, he wrote: "Serving alongside a dedicated staff and elected representatives has been both an honor and a privilege. The level of commitment and dedication to the ideal of maximizing the quality of life has been the guiding light that has manifested itself in a wide variety of positive impacts supported by district funding."

Director Shorr's career and board service were informed by graduate school at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., owning a healthcare consulting firm, and holding high-profile positions in healthcare administration in Detroit, Los Angeles, Milwaukee and New York.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, five children, four grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends. 

The Desert Healthcare District & Foundation Board of Directors will introduce a resolution in memory of Dr. Shorr at its monthly meeting at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24.