01/01/2026
A messge from our Executive Director
Asalaamu Alaikum (peace be upon you),
I distinctly remember wrapping up our 2024 year-end newsletter one year ago and thinking to myself, “Let’s see what we accomplish in 2025!” with excitement and a solid strategy plan. I am bewildered to think that one year has passed since that moment. Today, I write this note with gratitude, strength, and a new direction.
This year, Cleveland ibn Sina Clinic (CISC) had 43% more appointments than the previous year, demonstrating not only the value that CISC provides, but the need that exists in our community for access to compassionate, culturally responsive, patient-centered care. Our team of 15 physicians, one nurse practitioner, and numerous volunteers provided over 250 hours of free care to diverse patients from all backgrounds and income levels in multiple specialties such as primary care, endocrinology, pediatrics, mental health, podiatry and more. Recognizing the need for expanded care, we began offering women’s health services alongside pediatrics this year to ensure we provide whole-family care. We also piloted a weekday clinic to determine whether additional hours of service would benefit our patients. Increased partnerships and community outreach with interfaith groups have led us to reach an even larger number of people as we provided care through mobile clinics set up in various locations.
The entire CISC team is humbled and honored to be a trusted provider of care for over seven years. Our nearly 100% volunteer-based model shows how truly committed our team is to provide critical medical services when our community needs it most.
For the past two years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving as Executive Director of this amazing organization. I am humbled by the incredible growth we have experienced since we opened our doors. I too went through significant change this past summer as I left Cleveland—my home for decades-- and moved to Dallas with my family. With this move comes the perfect time for a transition to another leader who has been a part of the CISC community from the very first day. Our dear Brenda Qolak, BSN, RN will serve as the new Executive Director of Cleveland ibn Sina Clinic beginning January 1st, 2026. Brenda is a deeply sincere, extraordinary leader who knows all our patients by name, has wonderful relationships with our physicians and providers, and is a guiding example to all our volunteers. I am grateful to have had her expertise with me throughout my role. I will continue to be part of the CISC family as a member of the Board of Directors.
In 2026, we are even more dedicated to expanding our resources and specialties, continuing to build meaningful partnerships, and adapting our services to meet the evolving needs of our patients. Thank you for trusting us to take care of you and your loved ones.
Salaamu Alaikum (peace be upon you),
Asma Hussain, MPH, CPH
