In 1994 an Everett elementary school educator saw a growing need for health care access for Everett’s children. Through her efforts and those of Everett’s Board of Health, a group of concerned educators, school administrators, hospital administrators, civic and government leaders, health care professionals, Health Care for All staff and parents gathered together to form the Joint Committee for Children’s Health Care in Everett. The Committee is a true partnership. It’s unique partnership and commitment has helped hundreds of Everett’s children gain access to health care insurance coverage and become more aware of health issues affecting them. The Committee has also served as a model of Everett’s spirit, cooperation and leadership. Today the JCCHCE has helped people from over 100 communities in Massachusetts gain access to affordable health coverage.
JACKIE M. COOGAN – Founder of the JCCHCE
Past Board President and Treasurer
Most recently the Board Treasurer for the JCCHCE, Jackie brings 37 years of experience in the Everett Public Schools, as a classroom teacher and elementary School Counselor. Currently, an Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Bunker Hill Community College, Jackie holds a bachelor’s degree from Salem State University ’70 and a Master’s in Education from Suffolk University ’77.
Jackie Coogan previously served on the Board of Directors of Health Care for All (1999-2019), the leading consumer health advocacy organization in Massachusetts, which played a key role in developing the policy initiatives that led to passage and implementation of the Chapter 58 health reform law in April of 2006. In 2012, she was invited to the Massachusetts PTA Board of Directors as their State-wide Health, Safety and Wellness Chair where she continues to serve.
Jackie has been honored for her work in education, health care, children and families many times and most notable by:
- Health Care For All, Boston, MA. June 19,1998 For The People, Against the Tide, “For her leadership and commitment to securing health care access for the children of Everett and surrounding communities in Massachusetts”
- Salem State College, 2002 – Outstanding Educator of the Year
- Massachusetts Teachers Association Human and Civil Rights Award for Creative Leadership, May 2009
- Massachusetts PTA Commitment to Children Award, 2012