A retirement party was held Friday, May 1, at the Cleveland Civic Center, for Steve Racciato, who served 20 years as CEO of the Health Center of Southeast Texas.
The event, which drew a large crowd and included heartfelt remarks and two official proclamations, came as a surprise to Racciato. He attended with his wife, Sue, and their son.
Cleveland Mayor Danny Lee read a proclamation declaring May 1, 2026, as Steve Racciato Day in the City of Cleveland. HCSET’s new CEO Maggie Estrada read a proclamation from Liberty County Judge Jay Knight naming April 28, 2026, as Steve Racciato Day in Liberty County.
West Smith, chairman of the HCSET Board of Directors, welcomed those in attendance and reflected on Racciato’s two decades of leadership.
“We are here today to celebrate Steve in his retirement,” Smith said. “The Health Center would not be here today if it weren’t for Steve’s hard work, dedication over the past 20 years.”
Under Racciato’s leadership, the organization saw tremendous growth. What began with about 4,000 patient visits in its first year in Cleveland has expanded to nearly 50,000 visits annually, serving almost 18,000 patients across Polk, San Jacinto and Liberty counties.
“Throughout his tenure, Steve has led our organization with steady, compassionate leadership and a deep commitment to our employees and the community we serve,” Smith said. “His leadership has always been grounded in the belief that the patients come first, and that philosophy has shaped our organization’s culture.”
Smith also spoke about the personal side of Racciato’s leadership, noting his connection with employees and his work ethic.
“Over the years, he has made a point to remember everyone’s name. I don’t know how you do that. I can’t remember my own name,” Smith said with a laugh.
He added that it was common to see Racciato arrive early and stay late, setting the tone for the organization.
“As he retires, he leaves behind a strong foundation, a dedicated team, and a mission-driven organization that is stronger because of his leadership,” Smith said.
Board member Scott Lambert also shared remarks, including a message from former board member J. Rice, who recalled the early days of the health center.
“In 2004, I was president of the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce,” Rice wrote. “This was a very progressive time in Cleveland’s history.”
Rice described how overcrowding at the local emergency room and a lack of affordable healthcare led community leaders to explore the idea of a federally qualified health center.
“From the beginning, Steve pursued the development of the FQHC with fervor,” Rice wrote.
He also recalled humble beginnings, including meetings held in a flower shop with a leaky roof, and credited Racciato’s determination in helping bring the vision to life.
As Racciato steps away, HCSET will continue under the leadership of Estrada, who now serves as CEO. She is joined by longtime partners of the organization, including Dr. Jasmine Sulaiman, who serves as medical director.