
SANTA BARBARA, Calif (AP) — Thomas Tighe, the outgoing president and CEO of Direct Relief, has dedicated 24 years to delivering free medications to those in need. Tighe's passion for expanding healthcare access was evident as he oversaw the distribution of vital medications, such as the $1,500-per-dose cancer-related medication, Granix, to clinics in Central America and Africa.
Direct Relief, founded in 1948, is a nonprofit organization that provides free medical resources globally. Tighe's leadership has transformed the organization, embracing technology and fostering corporate partnerships to ensure operational efficiency.