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Category: Community News Community News
Published: 27 June 2016 27 June 2016

GRMC Pass Gavel RSCharles Kelly, Previous Chair of the GRMC Board of Trustees and incoming Chair, Jeremiah Garcia on the left and Dr. Donald Stinar on the rightSilver City, NM - On Friday, June 24, 2016, at the Gila Regional Medical Center monthly Board of Trustees meeting, Chair Charles Kelly stepped down after 5 dedicated years on the board. The hospital and the board honored him with many heartfelt comments and thanks.

"Charles took on the leadership of the board during a time of unprecedented turmoil and financial trouble during the most challenging time in the Healthcare industry to date" said Brain Cunningham, CEO at GRMC recalling the events that lead up to his transition to Chief Executive Office and Mr. Kelly's election to Chair of the Board of Trustees. "We cannot thank him enough for all his work and diligence over the years."

Since Mr. Kelly took over as the Chair, GRMC has recovered from a $9 million deficit, expanded services and grown as an organization.

"I have worked with a lot of hard working people, but never all in one place" said Mr. Kelly in his closing comments to the board. "Everyone, from our physicians to the person that changes the light bulbs is truly dedicated to making Gila Regional the best it can be."

The gavel was passed to long time board member Jeremiah Garcia who will now serve as the Chair of Gila Regional's Board of Trustees.

Also stepping down was Doctor Donald Stinar, another veteran of the board of trustees. Dr. Stinar served on the board since July of 2013.

"For a physician to make time in their busy schedule to serve on the board and on committees is commendable" said Dr. Victor Nwahchuku, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees. "Dr. Stinar was very active and made almost every meeting as well as participated in the Long Range & Institutional Planning, Quality Improvement, Human Resources and Healthcare Environment Committees. We thank him for all his time and service."

Both Charles Kelly and Dr. Donald Stinar received Proclamations of Appreciation for their service.

In addition the board recognized several caregivers for their dedicated service to the hospital. Roberta Lee Rice in Data Management was recognized for 30 years of service and Becky Estrada for 25 years of service in the Laundry Department. Also recognized, but not present at the meeting were Christopher Draper from the Imaging department; Rexine Sierra, the Director of the Cardiopulmonary department and Maureen Gilpin from the Labor and Delivery department all with 15 years of service.