SFMR Board of Directors
The Sierra Frontier Medical Resources Board of Directors is comprised of several longstanding residents who came together with the common goal of augmenting medical services in Western Sierra County.These volunteers bring clinical and emergency medical experience, legal expertise, as well as accounting, journalism, and fundraising skills to SFMR. Though from diverse backgrounds, the group shares a strong history of service to the community in a wide variety of roles.
Frank J. Lang, NP, JD Chairman, Sierra Frontier Medical Resources (SFMR)
Frank J. Lang, NP, JD, has dedicated his life to service — in healthcare, emergency response, and community leadership. A Nurse Practitioner and retired Commander of the U.S. Public Health Service, Frank served as CEO and Nurse Practitioner at the Western Sierra Medical Clinic in Downieville from 1976 to 2007, providing exceptional care to Sierra County residents for more than three decades.
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Today, he continues to lead as Chairman of Sierra Frontier Medical Resources (SFMR) and as Director of the Downieville Fire Protection District. Frank also serves with the Downieville Ambulance team and remains deeply involved in civic and faith-based organizations, including the Downieville Lions Club, the Downieville Improvement Group, and the Immaculate Conception Parish Council.
Frank’s lifelong dedication to the well-being of Downieville and the broader Sierra region stands as a testament to his enduring spirit of service.
Ingrid Larson Vice President & Treasurer, SFMR
A resident of Downieville for more than twenty years, Ingrid Larson brings a lifetime of professional expertise and community dedication to her role as Vice President and Treasurer of Sierra Frontier Medical Resources. An attorney-at-law and active member of the California State Bar since 1972, Ingrid combines legal insight with a strong commitment to local service.
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From 2001 to 2011, she owned and operated the Downieville Grocery, where she became a familiar and trusted face in the community. In addition to her active law practice, Ingrid volunteers through many local organizations.
Mary Nourse Secretary, SFMR
A long-time resident of Sierra City, Mary Nourse has devoted her life to education, community, and preserving the rich history of the Sierra. A retired Downieville High School teacher, she inspired generations of students with her dedication and care.
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Mary also owned and operated the historic Holly House Bed and Breakfast Inn in Sierra City — a beautifully restored landmark dating back to the Gold Rush era. Today, she continues to serve her community as a board member of the Sierra County Historical Society, helping to safeguard the stories and heritage of the region she loves.
Susan Hopkins Director,, SFMR
Susan Hopkins is an early childhood educator with a lifelong focus on social justice and community well-being. A proud wife, mother, and grandmother, she has dedicated her career to supporting families, teachers, and children through equitable access to education and care.
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Susan has served on several nonprofit boards with missions spanning early education, teacher training, rural health care, and Sierra County history. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to creating opportunities that strengthen both individuals and the communities they call home.
Miriam Dines: Director, SFMR
Miriam Dines is a lifelong resident of Sierra City. Lifelong resident of Sierra City; retired from Sierra County Department of Transportation; currently employed at Tom’s Snowmobile; lay servant of Downieville-Sierra City Community United Methodist Church.
Sonya Z. Meline Director of Development and Communications, SFMR
Sonya Z. Meline brings a dynamic blend of entrepreneurial spirit, community leadership, and healthcare expertise to her role as Director of Development and Communications for Sierra Frontier Medical Resources. With a professional background in healthcare IT and cybersecurity, Sonya combines technical insight with strong communication and organizational skills to support the growth and sustainability of rural healthcare resources across Sierra County.
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A long-time resident of Downieville, Sonya has raised her family in the Sierra and is proud that her son achieved Advanced EMT certification before graduating high school—a reflection of the community’s spirit of service that inspires her work every day.
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In addition to her role with SFMR, Sonya serves as President of the Sierra County Visitors Bureau, board member of the Sierra County Chamber of Commerce, and an active leader in numerous local initiatives focused on community development and tourism. A hospitality owner and advocate for small-town revitalization, she is committed to preserving the beauty, history, and resilience of the Downieville and Sierra City communities while fostering opportunity for the next generation.
HONORED PAST DIRECTORS of SFMR
Liz Fisher served as a founding member and Director of the Downieville Clinic Patient Advocacy Committee (DC-PAC) from 2014–2020, drawing on extensive community and emergency service experience.
Her background includes retiring as the OES Coordinator/Risk Manager for Sierra County, serving as Treasurer on the Downieville Fire Protection District Board, and acting as a Sierra County Planning Commissioner.
Her emergency medical service credentials include twelve years as an EMT II with the Sierra City Volunteer Fire Department and Downieville Ambulance, complemented by seven years on the Sierra City Fire District Board, and she is also a dedicated member of the Downieville Lions Club.
SFMR DIRECTORS RECEIVE DONATION
