Hendrick Health in Abilene announced Friday that Angelo State University graduate Kirk Canada will take the reins at the system while the board conducts a national search for next CEO, a Hendrick media release said.
Canada, system vice president and chief operating officer, was appointed interim president and CEO in the wake of Brad Holland, who was serving as president and CEO, leaving after seven years of service.
“A West Texas native, Canada has played an integral role in advancing Hendrick’s mission, strengthening operational performance and supporting the continued growth of healthcare services across the region,” the media release said.
Canada earned a bachelor’s degree from Angelo State University, a doctorate in physical therapy and a doctorate of science from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and a master of science in health care administration from Trinity University in San Antonio, the media release said. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Canada joined Hendrick Health in 2012 as a physical therapist, and he has advanced through leadership roles across the organization, the media release said.
His roles at Hendrick have included director of regional services, assistant vice president of business development and post-acute services, COO for the Abilene market and system vice president of business development before being named vice president and COO for the health system.
Brad is departing with an eye toward the future, the media release said.
“I am proud of what we have accomplished and the vision that has been cast for the future,” Holland said in the media release. “Today, I feel it’s time to look for what comes next in my life, but do not feel it’s fair to Hendrick to explore opportunities while still employed.”
The health system board was grateful for growth and transformation at Hendrick during Holland’s time there, the media release said. That includes Hendrick Health’s expansion into a regional health system with nearly 6,000 employees, serving patients in 24 counties.
“The Board and Brad wish each other the best in their respective future endeavors,” the Hendrick media release said.
No follow-up or interviews would be offered, Hendrick Health said.
Trish Choate is the executive editor for the Abilene Reporter-News, San Angelo Standard-Times and Wichita Falls Times Record News. Contact Trish with news tips at tchoate@USATodayco.com. Read her recent work here.
This article originally appeared on San Angelo Standard-Times: ASU grad steps up to head Hendrick Health
Reporting by Trish Choate, San Angelo Standard-Times / San Angelo Standard-Times
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