Hendrick Health in Abilene, Texas, is promoting eight executives as part of a realignment of its executive team.
"As Hendrick Health continues to grow and evolve to meet the healthcare needs of our region, now and into the future, we have strategically realigned key roles and responsibilities in our executive organizational structure," said Brad Holland, president and CEO for Hendrick Health. "These talented individuals have proven track records as outstanding leaders, and exhibit our organization's mission, values and commitments to excellence."
The executive changes at the nonprofit, eight-hospital system are effective Sept. 1, according to a news release shared with Becker's.
- Kirk Canada is the vice president and COO for the system. Mr. Canada joined the system in 2012 and most recently served as vice president and Abilene Market COO.
- Brian Bessent is the vice president and chief strategy officer for the system. Mr. Bessent joined Hendrick in 1999 and more recently served as COO of Hendrick Medical Center South in Abilene.
- Judy LaFrance is the chief administrative officer of Hendrick Medical Center South. Ms. LaFrance has served as assistant chief nursing officer at the hospital since 2020.
- Susan Wade is the Abilene Market COO. Ms. Wade joined Hendrick in 1994 and more recently served as assistant vice president and vice president with the system.
- Heather Ray, DNP, RN, is the Abilene Market CNO. Dr. Ray previously served as assistant CNO of Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene.
- Jessica Connell, MSN, RN, is the CNO of Hendrick Medical Center Brownwood (Texas). Ms. Connell previously served as assistant CNO for the same hospital.
- Jory Lee is the COO of Hendrick Medical Center Brownwood. Mr. Lee, who joined the system in 1998, previously served as assistant COO at the same hospital.
- Jesiree Driskell is the assistant vice president of strategic communication and digital experience for the system. She previously served as the system's director of marketing and communications.