Emergence Health Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Emergence Health has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, medical affairs, and administration.

Dedicated to advancing behavioral and developmental services, Emergence Health provides comprehensive care, driving positive outcomes for the El Paso region through specialized interventions and rehabilitative support.

Leadership Roles at Emergence Health

  • Chief Executive Officer - Kristen Daugherty
  • Chief of Staff - Rene Hurtado
  • Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer - Stephanie Martinez
  • Chief Medical Officer - Shawna Scully
  • Physician, Chief Medical Officer of Outpatient Medical and Addiction Service - Carroll Thornburg
  • Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) - Iris Sandoval
  • Kristen Daugherty - Chief Executive Officer

    Kristen Daugherty, the Chief Executive Officer at Emergence Health, directs the organization's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Daugherty guides the expansion of behavioral and developmental services across the El Paso region, ensuring alignment with the company's mission to provide comprehensive care. This leadership role involves overseeing all departments, fostering innovation in service delivery, and maintaining strong relationships with community stakeholders and regulatory bodies. Kristen Daugherty drives the integration of crisis intervention, psychiatric evaluations, and rehabilitative skills training, ensuring these critical services meet the evolving needs of the population served. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on enhancing patient outcomes and solidifying Emergence Health's position as a leader in mental health and developmental support.
    Kristen Daugherty

    Rene Hurtado - Chief of Staff

    Rene Hurtado, the Chief of Staff at Emergence Health, manages critical operational initiatives and supports the executive leadership team in achieving strategic objectives. Hurtado facilitates cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring seamless execution of programs related to crisis intervention, psychiatric evaluation, and rehabilitative skills training. This role involves streamlining internal processes, optimizing resource allocation, and acting as a key liaison between various functional areas. Rene Hurtado's efforts are central to enhancing the efficiency of service delivery and supporting the Chief Executive Officer's directives. The Chief of Staff's contributions are vital for maintaining operational integrity and driving forward the organization's commitment to behavioral and developmental health services in the El Paso area.

    Stephanie Martinez - Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer

    Stephanie Martinez, the Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer at Emergence Health, provides essential administrative and logistical support to the human resources function. Martinez manages scheduling, correspondence, and the coordination of meetings, ensuring the smooth operation of the HR department. This role is critical for facilitating the efficient management of employee relations, recruitment, and professional development initiatives. Stephanie Martinez's support directly contributes to the effective implementation of HR policies and programs that underpin the organization's workforce. The Executive Assistant's dedication ensures that the Chief Human Resources Officer can focus on strategic HR planning and employee well-being initiatives.

    Shawna Scully - Chief Medical Officer

    Shawna Scully, the Chief Medical Officer at Emergence Health, directs the clinical strategy and oversees the delivery of all medical services, including psychiatric evaluations and psychoactive mediation monitoring. Scully ensures the highest standards of patient care are maintained across all programs, focusing on evidence-based practices in behavioral and developmental health. This leadership position involves guiding clinical teams, developing treatment protocols, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. Shawna Scully's expertise is crucial for advancing the quality and effectiveness of the rehabilitative skills training and crisis intervention services offered. The Chief Medical Officer champions clinical excellence and innovation, directly impacting patient outcomes and the overall health mission of Emergence Health.

    Carroll Thornburg - Physician, Chief Medical Officer of Outpatient Medical and Addiction Service

    Carroll Thornburg, the Physician, Chief Medical Officer of Outpatient Medical and Addiction Service at Emergence Health, leads the specialized clinical operations for outpatient care and addiction services. Thornburg oversees the provision of medical expertise in psychiatric evaluation, psychoactive mediation monitoring, and supportive counseling within these critical service lines. This role demands a deep understanding of addiction treatment modalities and behavioral health interventions. Carroll Thornburg's leadership ensures that patients receive integrated and effective care, addressing complex medical and psychological needs. The Physician, Chief Medical Officer of Outpatient Medical and Addiction Service is instrumental in developing and refining treatment plans that promote recovery and long-term well-being for individuals seeking support.

    Iris Sandoval - Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

    Iris Sandoval, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) at Emergence Health, manages the comprehensive administrative functions that support the organization's operational efficiency and strategic goals. Sandoval oversees critical areas including finance, human resources, and facilities management, ensuring seamless integration of support services for all clinical programs. This leadership role is vital for optimizing resource allocation, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with administrative regulations. Iris Sandoval's strategic oversight enables the effective delivery of behavioral and developmental services by providing a robust operational framework. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) plays a key part in maintaining the stability and growth of Emergence Health, facilitating its mission to serve the El Paso community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Emergence Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Emergence Health?
    Emergence Health is led by Kristen Daugherty (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Rene Hurtado (Chief of Staff) and Stephanie Martinez (Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Emergence Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Emergence Health includes leaders such as Kristen Daugherty (Chief Executive Officer), Rene Hurtado (Chief of Staff), Stephanie Martinez (Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Emergence Health have?
    Emergence Health has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Emergence Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Emergence Health includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief of Staff, Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Medical Officer, Physician, Chief Medical Officer of Outpatient Medical and Addiction Service.