We’d like to introduce you to House of Ruth Board Member Marc Mourer! We sent him a few questions, and he was kind enough to answer…
What is/was (if retired) your profession?
I recently retired from a professional career in healthcare for the past 29 years, working for Humana and Kindred (now Scion Health). My responsibilities included managing a region of clinical salespeople who drove revenue to Kindred hospitals; spearheading the marketing and communications platforms for Humana’s largest commercial insurance clients then transitioning into executive account management of their largest national physician clients for their pharmacy line of business. As a result, I have greatly learned about our nation’s highly complex health care system which has helped me to navigate it for myself, family and friends while sympathetic to many Americans’ plight.
How long have you been involved at House of Ruth?
I joined the House of Ruth Board April 2025, prior I volunteered to help with the Food Pantry on Fridays since Summer 2024 which I continue to support. It is an impactful opportunity to interact with our clients, getting to know them and better understand their respective circumstances.
The best part about being on the board/working with House of Ruth?
Although I am relatively new to the Board, I am appreciating the hard work and commitment of the staff and board to help an under-served, marginalized population within our community. It is exciting to have joined the Board as the organization moves into its new building and the expansion of the campus apartments, a very significant chapter for House of Ruth. I am ready to show off the new buildings and promote the organization’s mission to a wider audience!
Favorite thing to do when you’re not working?
I love to travel whether it is near or far away. Traveling to new destinations enriches my knowledge and appreciation of diverse cultures and geographies. I have been fortunate to travel to all 50 states…saving Hawaii for last. I also have traveled extensively to Europe and Asia, last vacationing in the Philippines Summer 2025. New Harmony Indiana is a favorite travel place. It’s serenity and beauty reenergizes me every time.
Favorite movie of all time?
I am a movie fan and watch contemporary and classic films. An all-time favorite of mine is The Graduate. You have it all … a predatory Anne Bancroft, naive Dustin Hoffman, Director Mike Nichols, mid-60’s set design, legendary scenes and an iconic Simon & Garfunkel soundtrack (one of the first movies to incorporate original pop music). Quintessential.
Favorite TV show?
Reno 911 makes me gut laugh every time I watch any episode, a remedy for a bad day. Also, Somebody Somewhere is a new favorite. One of the few shows that honestly depict friendships and the wealth they bring into our lives. This series has a BIG heart.
The album/song you could listen to every day?
This is the hardest question because I LOVE music of many genres. However, to give an answer, my pick would be “Walking Wounded” by Everything But The Girl. This is a favorite band that released this seminal album in 1996, It was a bold reinvention for a stylish band who moved from acoustic jazz pop to emotional, sophisticated electronica when it was unusual for such artists. The blend of raw lyrics, yearning vocals with progressive, electronic textures was ahead of its time and still feels very fresh in 2025. It transports me every listen. Albums by REM, Luther Vandross, Tracy Chapman and Vince Guaraldi would be contenders.
Favorite food?
Besides peanut butter (which I could eat every meal), I love Ethiopian cuisine which has many dishes that are common in U.S. such as potatoes, cabbage, greens, chicken and beef but elevated with their own cultural spices. Plus, you eat it with your hands using bits of bread. Very comforting and filling. Queen of Sheeba in Louisville is a favorite.
Quote to live by?
“This too shall pass.” A traditional phrase encouraging resilience in both joy and despair. Also … “we accept the love that we think we deserve” (Stephen Chbosky) which is a hard truth upon reflection but healthy in choosing whom to give our energies in this life.
One more fun fact about you…
I grew up with Billy Ray Cyrus in our hometown of Flatwoods, KY. We played high school football … he was older. Who knew back then??
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