California State University, Monterey Bay
Steven Packer has been a consistent, leadership-level donor to the California State University, Monterey Bay annual fund since 2004. The chief executive officer of Montage Health has been an integral partner in supporting CSUMB’s health care programs. Under his leadership, Montage Health’s community partnership of nearly $1 million has supported programs within CSUMB’s College of Health Sciences and Human Services, as well as scholarships for its students.
Chief executive officer of Montage Health since January 1999, Dr. Packer has a long history of supporting health care in the region. His background as chief of staff for Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula and as medical director of its intensive care unit for 11 years has provided him with real-world knowledge that guides his support of health and well-being in the community.
Montage Health has experienced considerable growth under Dr. Packer’s leadership. He has overseen the expansion of Community Hospital’s facilities through the Pavilions Project, the development of the Carol Hatton Breast Center, the construction of the Ryan Ranch Outpatient Campus and the creation of Montage Medical Group. He also has worked to expand access to essential health care services through the opening of Montage Wellness Centers in Marina and Salinas, and the creation of Monterey County’s first Medicare Advantage Program, Aspire Health Plan.
An ardent supporter of education, Dr. Packer has been instrumental in offering support to CSUMB students in the nursing and physician assistant programs, and many students have completed their clinical rotations at Montage Health locations throughout Monterey County.
Dr. Packer also serves on the boards of the VHA West Coast, Norcal Mutual Insurance Co. and the California Hospital Association, where he is a past chair. He also served on the board of CSUMB’s Foundation from 2014 to 2023.
Dr. Packer actively seeks opportunities to provide philanthropic support to local community initiatives and organizations. He has been a dedicated donor to CSUMB for nearly 20 years and an inspirational role model for CSUMB’s health care students.
In recognition of his 20 years of philanthropic support to CSUMB and his efforts to expand health programs that serve the region, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Monterey Bay are proud to confer upon Dr. Steven Packer the honorary degree of Doctor of Science.