(SitNews) Ketchikan, Alaska - Ken Tonjes, chief administrative officer (CAO) at PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center, has made the decision to leave PeaceHealth to move closer to his children and grandchildren in Washington. After nearly 26 years with PeaceHealth, and three years in Ketchikan, Tonjes plans to enjoy some time off and then reassess his career goals and professional options. His last day at the medical center will be on or before December 31, 2016.

CAO Ken Tonjes as he thanked the community of Ketchikan and many others for their partnership in making the new surgery and clinic addition at PeaceHealth Ketchikan a reality during the recent Ribbon Cutting celebration.
Photo courtesy PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center

“With phase I of the new construction nearly complete, I feel it’s the right time to make a transition,” Tonjes said. “I have truly enjoyed my time serving the people of Ketchikan and helping to build on the legacy that the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace began nearly a century ago,” continued Tonjes. “Ketchikan and the people here will always hold a dear place in my heart. It’s difficult to say goodbye to the community that welcomed my wife and I so warmly nearly three years ago.”

In addition to collaborating with the city on the new surgery and clinic addition at PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center, which is slated to open in fall 2016, Tonjes is most proud of spearheading the process to designate PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center as a Critical Access Hospital, launching the PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center Foundation, and leading the effort to secure a multi-million dollar CMS innovation grant to help patients better manage their chronic diseases.

“We are deeply grateful to Ken for his years of service to PeaceHealth, especially for his leadership in PeaceHealth’s ministry in Ketchikan,” said Dale Zender, PeaceHealth chief executive for the northwest network. Zender noted that a search will begin immediately to find a replacement for Tonjes. “I will ensure that the right candidate upholds the PeaceHealth mission and values and is committed to the Ketchikan community,” Zender said.

Editing by Mary Kauffman, SitNews

Source of News:

PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center
www.peacehealth.org/ketchikan

 

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