The CareQuest Institute for Oral Health has appointed experienced healthcare executive Wade Rakes as chief executive officer, according to a September 15, 2025, press release from the company. Rakes, who previously served as chief growth officer at Centene Corporation and as president and CEO of its Georgia-based subsidiary, Peach State Health Plan, will supervise the strategic direction and operations of the CareQuest Institute, including managing its endowment, its philanthropic investments and advocacy efforts, and its dental insurance and benefits administrator. He will also oversee the institute’s innovation arm, which works to increase access to oral healthcare and improve patient outcomes for underserved US populations.
“I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and energized by the chance to work alongside the team at CareQuest, its expansive operations, and our board in advancing a mission that touches every community: improving oral health outcomes for all Americans,” said Rakes. “Together, we will expand access, drive innovation, shape policy, and ensure that oral health is recognized as essential to overall health.”
Rakes, who has more than two decades of leadership experience in the healthcare industry, possesses a keen understanding of how access to oral healthcare impacts overall health outcomes and has developed a distinguished track record of driving growth. He spent 15 years at Centene, during which time he rose to chief growth officer. In that role, he significantly contributed to the company’s expansion and reach. Later, at Peach State Health Plan, where he served as president and CEO, he led a team that supported the healthcare journeys of the company’s members all across the state.
“We are excited to welcome Wade’s vision, energy, and expertise,” said Pam Reeve, acting CEO and board chair for CareQuest Institute. “With his leadership, we are poised to strengthen our partnerships, broaden our impact, and accelerate our efforts to break down barriers to oral health for all.”
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Rakes has always remained committed to being a civic leader. At the beginning of his career, he served as a cabinet-level official for the State of Ohio. Today, he is chair of the board of LGBTQ+ Victory, vice chair of the board of the High Museum, a trustee of the Woodruff Arts Center, and a member of the board of advisors of the James A. Baker III Institute at Rice University.
