Meet Our Leadership Team
Our leadership team is comprised of a wide variety of professionals with unique backgrounds who all share a dedication to helping patients heal and learn to overcome obstacles.
David Melear, MS, M.ED.
Chief Executive Officer
David Melear brings more than 30-years of experience in the mental health and substance use treatment field, with 19 of those serving in executive leadership. David entered the field as direct-care staff and discovered a passion for caring for those in need. Through this passion he advanced to the positions of Executive Director, COO and CEO over the course of his career.
David is recognized for his commitment to successful outcomes that result from collaboration, an inspired culture, and a relentless determination for growth and development. “I believe in the power of team and setting of high standards that all of us work together to accomplish,” said Melear. “Every member of the team is important and vital to our patient-first mindset.”
“I am excited to return to Oregon as a professional working in this field” said Melear. “Cedar Hills Hospital & Outpatient Services excels at providing services to Oregonians and those within our region. I feel it an honor to work together with other community and state partners to elevate access and provision of care for the growing population needing care.” Melear believes that it will take all providers within the state to unite for us to support the needs of those who struggle. “Our work cannot be accomplished alone – we must combine our strengths and talents to help connect treatment to those who are in need. Serving people must be our utmost priority and cause.”
David holds master’s degrees in education and human resource management. He is highly grateful for the amazing, talented people that have influenced his professional development and feels indebted to our work because of their example. David grew up in Oregon and always knew he would one day return home. David is supported unconditionally by his brilliant and beautiful wife of 32 years. They were married in Oregon and feel their return to this amazing state as a full-circle moment.
Alex Drilling, MHA
Director of Outpatient Services
Alex Drilling, MHA has worked at Cedar Hills Hospital since 2011, having served in both coordinator and management roles with the Cedar Hills Hospital Outpatient Department prior to becoming the Director of Outpatient Services in 2018. Alex received bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Portland State University, and his Master of Healthcare Administration from Walden University. As a native Oregonian and Portlander, Alex has a passion for the outdoors, spending time with his family, and rooting for the Blazers.
