After twenty-five years of leading Speare Memorial Hospital through growth, innovation, and transformation, President and CEO Michelle McEwen, FACHE, has announced plans to retire in the spring of 2026.
McEwen shared the news with hospital staff in an email, expressing both gratitude and reflection on her time with the organization.
“After much reflection and with a deep sense of gratitude, I am writing to share that I will be retiring from my role as CEO this upcoming spring,” McEwen wrote. “This decision has not come easily, as serving this hospital and working alongside each of you has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life.”
McEwen joined Speare Memorial Hospital in 1994 and assumed the role of CEO in 2000. During her tenure, she guided the hospital through significant expansion and modernization efforts. Under her leadership, Speare broadened access to specialty care, advanced patient safety and quality initiatives, modernized its facilities, and strengthened partnerships throughout the region—all while maintaining its commitment to being an independent, community-centered healthcare provider.
“I want to express our deep appreciation to Michelle for the leadership she has provided to all members of the Speare community,” said Steve Camerino, chair of the Speare Memorial Hospital Board of Directors. “It would be hard to overstate the importance of Michelle’s contributions to the success of Speare during the last two and a half decades. We will miss her steady hand at the helm, but this transition also provides an opportunity to find a new leader who can build upon the remarkable foundation Michelle has created.”
In her message to employees, McEwen reflected on the organization’s accomplishments and expressed confidence in its future.
“Together, we have faced challenges, celebrated milestones, and continually strived to provide the highest quality care to our patients and community,” she said. “I am profoundly proud of what we have accomplished—growing our services, improving patient care, and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.”
The Speare Memorial Hospital Board of Directors will begin the search for McEwen’s successor, with plans to ensure a seamless transition in leadership.
McEwen concluded her message by expressing gratitude to her colleagues and the broader community:
“You have made this hospital not only a place of healing, but a true community. I will always carry with me the memories of my years here at Speare and look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish in the years ahead.”