Freeman Health System CEO to retire

Joplin-based Freeman Health System President and CEO Gary Duncan announced Aug. 25 his plans to retire in 2012. Duncan, who has held the top position for 15 years, joined the health system in 1975 as its first human resources director.

“For many years, I have been privileged to lead a team of people who are committed to the mission of this hospital system,” Duncan said in a news release. “Whether they are responding to everyday patient needs or heroically saving lives in the wake of a historic tornado, our team lives out their commitment to serving our region.

“I have always taken very seriously the responsibility of leading that team.”

Duncan said he informed Freeman’s board of directors several months ago but waited to make an official announcement until a transition strategy had been formulated. Freeman officials have said more of the details of that transition will be revealed in the weeks to come.

Board members have formed a committee to choose Duncan's successor.

“I am extremely confident, given the thoroughness of the process that has been established and the leadership of the board of directors, the choice for the next Freeman CEO will be an outstanding one,” said Dr. Lance Beshore, chairman of the board, in the release. “That person will have all the tools and resources he or she may need to keep leading this incredible team.”

For more on this story and a one-on-one interview with Gary Duncan, see the Sept. 5 issue of Joplin Tri-State Business Journal.