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BAPTIST HOSPITAL CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER SELECTED FOR LEADERSHIP FORMATION PROGRAM
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Jan. 21, 2010 – Baptist Hospital Chief Operating Officer Renee Kessler has been selected to participate in Ascension Health’s Formation for Catholic Healthcare Ministry Leadership program.
Each year, approximately 25 participants from across Ascension Health, a Catholic organization that is the largest not-for-profit health system in the United States, are selected for the two-year program. Baptist Hospital and Saint Thomas Health Services are members of Ascension Health. In partnership with the Aquinas Institute of Theology, Ascension Health has developed the program to engage selected leaders through self-directed study and shared learning experiences. It provides a base knowledge and understanding of the Catholic theological tradition and nurtures personal inner growth. Individuals will be introduced to approaches to decision-making using moral and ethical methods and principles.
“The long-term vitality of Ascension Health as a Catholic healthcare ministry depends on leaders who understand the unique call to ministry leadership,” said Anthony R. Tersigni, president and CEO of Ascension Health. “This program has been designed to develop a community of individuals who are spiritually mature, vitally effective and prepared to take our ministry into the future.”
As a participant, Kessler will complete online course work, participate in interactive, virtual small groups and attend a series of retreats in St. Louis over the next 18 months. After completion of the courses, she will spend six months on a specific project that will integrate her experience into the ministry of Baptist Hospital.
Kessler, who has worked at Baptist Hospital for three years, has more than 20 years of experience in hospital administration. She oversees hospital operations, performance improvement, facilities, security and patient care areas, including emergency services, women’s services, laboratory, rehabilitation, medical imaging and the Metabolic Surgery Center. Prior to her role at Baptist Hospital, Kessler worked for Mountainside Hospital in Montclair, N.J.
Kessler is the fifth Baptist Hospital associate to be selected for the program since its inception. Baptist Hospital Director of Facilities Damian Skelton, President and CEO Bernie Sherry, Nursing Director Norman Wells and Palliative Care Program Coordinator Yolanda Holmes have also participated in the course.
