Why would an old guy (leading edge of the boomers) think he has something to say, that others would want to read? It’s a risk, but I have always been a (hopefully, prudent) risk taker.
On April 15, I stepped down as President and CEO of Scott & White Healthcare, after 11 years in the saddle. Not retired, but shifting efforts to philanthropy to support our patients, families and staff in our never-ending challenge of providing the highest quality of care at an affordable price for our communities.
As CEO, I supported, catered to, fought, challenged and led many constituencies—13,000 staff, 800 physicians, legislators, politicians, donors, community leaders, executives, professional organizations, boards, and on and on. And now I can focus on individuals, foundations, and corporations who want to make a difference in healthcare through philanthropy. And that is exciting.
So, I will explore this new world with you and, without hesitation, discuss medical topics, healthcare reform (it has to happen), what works and doesn’t as a leader (listen and make decisions), transitions (there is life beyond the C-suite), personal health challenges (to medicate or not), and current events (related to healthcare)—using my nearly 40 years of experience as a physician, scientist, family man (37 years and proud of it), and reluctant leader (perhaps more later), as well as my experience growing up on a horse ranch in Oklahoma (which was a strong motivation to get educated!).
But mostly I’m going to talk about the expanded and necessary world of nonprofit philanthropy and how, hopefully, leadership can make a difference. So I hope you will join me on this adventure. I look forward to your comments, observations, input and even questions, which will hopefully continue what I envision to be a great dialogue.