The cafeteria of Newman Regional Health was full Wednesday afternoon as staff and residents alike came to pay their respects and well wishes to outgoing Hospital CEO Bob Wright ahead of his official retirement later this year.
Wright, ever humble, stated he was grateful for the turnout, but tells KVOE News that recognition was never a driving force behind his career. He attributed much of the success of the hospital in recent years to the work of the staff of Newman saying he was very happy to be a piece of the puzzle.
Wright added that coming to Newman was truly a “blessing” for him. He says there are many things he will miss in retirement, namely the individuals he has had the pleasure to work alongside.
Incoming CEO Cathy Pimple says she is going to miss Wright’s sense of humor in the office and thanked Wright for all he has taught her in the time they have known each other. Pimple noted that her time of learning under Wright actually began before her tenure at Newman.
Wright’s official retirement is effective Oct. 1 with his last day of work set for Sept. 20. Wright was named as Newman Regional Health’s chief administrator in October 2013, replacing Bob Driewer, and he started in Emporia in January 2014.
Before coming to Emporia, Wright also served as the chief executive officer at hospitals in Peoria, Illinois; Lansing, Michigan; and Bay City, Michigan.
