Hospital CEO addresses auxiliary
Thom Smith, chief executive officer of St. Luke Hospital, spoke to members of the hospital auxiliary Thursday at their 34th annual banquet.
"I have a passion for our health-care mission," he said.
He noted the transition from Banner Health Systems to an independent entity presents "a unique opportunity and a real challenge."
He cited six initiatives to ensure the vitality and success of the hospital: physician recruitment and good relations with the clinic, staff morale and team work, cash flow and business operations, community relations and marketing, training for the board of directors, and excellence in health care delivery.
He praised the auxiliary for being "right there beside us," multiplying the good work done by the hospital, long- term-care home, and home health agency.
"You are taking care of the caregivers," he said.
The bedspread donated by Teeny Williams as a fund-raiser was won by Jim Herzet. Ticket sales totaled approximately $565.
The auxiliary plans to use the money to refurnish the hospital lobby.
Elected officers for the coming year were Judy Reno, president, Penelope Marler, vice president, Lavonne Hannaford, secretary, and Eileen Sieger, treasurer.
Guest speakers were Harry and Margie Bennett, who related their experiences as Peace Corps volunteers in Belize, Central America. Their story was published in the Oct. 6, 2004, issue of Marion County Record.
