During a ceremony filled with reflection, resolve, and a sense of community, CommonSpirit Primary Care Evergreen officially reopened its doors on June 15, nearly four months after an active shooter event that tested its very foundation.
The reopening wasn't merely a return to routine; it was a declaration of hope, resilience, and commitment to the health and well-being of the Evergreen, Colorado community.
The morning began with a welcome from Dr. Shauna Gulley, System Senior Vice President for Physician Enterprise at CommonSpirit Mountain Region. Dr. Gulley acknowledged the journey shared, thanking guests and local leaders whose support had been instrumental in the recovery process. She specifically highlighted the guidance of senior system and region leaders, including Terika Richardson, CommonSpirit Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, who was present for the reopening and met with team members. U.S. Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen also attended, along with state and county officials.
"Today is a day when we acknowledge the journey we have walked together and where we look forward with determination and renewed purpose," Dr. Gulley said.
Dr. Sarah Hill, Mountain Region Chief Mission Integration Officer, offered a reflection and prayer. Drawing inspiration from Isaiah 41:10 – "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
"What could have been a day of profound loss became, by God’s mercy, a testimony of protection and resilience. No team member's lives were taken in the violence that touched this place," Dr. Hill said.
Andrew Gaasch, CommonSpirit Health’s Mountain Region President, echoed these sentiments, directly addressing the impact of the events of February 12.
"Today is not just about turning a key and re-entering this space. Today is about the heart of this clinic beating strong once again and the perseverance that has brought us to this moment," Gaasch said.
He delivered a promise, assuring the community that CommonSpirit would remain "a steadfast partner, a source of comfort, and a dedicated provider of care for years to come."
Dr. Gulley detailed the enhancements implemented to ensure the highest level of safety and security for the clinic. These measures include improved access control with new badge reader systems, reinforced window and front desk security with bullet/shatter-resistant film and glass barriers, and an upgraded centralized surveillance system.
Beyond the Evergreen facility, she noted that the learnings had led to a broader organizational commitment, with six other Mountain Region facilities implementing an advanced Visitor Management System.
"These changes represent our unwavering dedication to safety and our commitment that this clinic will remain a secure and welcoming place for all," Dr. Gulley said.
U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen from Colorado's 7th Congressional District also shared remarks, underscoring the importance of the clinic's role in the community and the collective effort behind its reopening.
The ceremony culminated in a blessing led by Fr. Tema Nnamezie, Director of Mission for the Greater Denver Market. As an organization rooted in Catholic faith, the blessing served as a sacred recommitment. Fr. Tema invoked divine presence, asking for Christ's light, love, comfort, healing, and peace to fill the clinic. Prayers were offered for both the patients seeking care and the dedicated clinicians who would serve within its walls.
"May this new clinic be a house of blessing and a center of love; where physicians practice the art of healing with wisdom, where nurses and techs serve the sick with care and humankindness," Fr. Tema prayed, before sprinkling the newly reopened facility with Holy Water.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Gulley acknowledged the true heart of the clinic: its team members.
"It’s your courage, your heart, mind, and spirit that enable the strength we all feel today," she concluded.
The reopening of CommonSpirit Primary Care Evergreen signals a renewed dedication to its patients, a reinforced commitment to safety, and a vibrant future for healthcare in the heart of Evergreen.
