Debbie Simon, BSN, CEO of Peoria-based UnityPoint Health in Central Illinois, is retiring June 30.
UnityPoint Health in Central Illinois is a part of West Des Moines, Iowa-based UnityPoint Health.
Ms. Simon joined Peoria-based Methodist Hospital in 1976 as a nurse, and she worked her way up the ranks to eventually become regional CEO. In 2011, she spearheaded the integration of Methodist with UnityPoint Health, and then led further expansion into the region when Methodist affiliated with Peoria-based Proctor Hospital in 2013 and Pekin (Ill.) Hospital in 2017. The three hospitals make up UnityPoint Health in Central Illinois.
Ms. Simon served on the Peoria and Pekin Chambers of Commerce. She holds an MBA from Bradley University in Peoria.
Keith Knepp, MD, will succeed Ms. Simon. Dr. Knepp is currently president of UnityPoint Health-Methodist and UnityPoint Health-Proctor. He formerly practiced as a family medicine physician in Eureka, Ill.
Dr. Knepp will become CEO of UnityPoint Health in Central Illinois April 1, and he will work closely with Ms. Simon until she retires to ensure a smooth transition.