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Team, I am filled with optimism, energy, and a humble heart as I begin my first weeks as interim CEO of UI Hospitals & Clinics while also maintaining my role as chief nurse executive. I realize some of you know me quite well, others just a little, and some not all. So, I wanted to share a reflection of what brought me to Iowa and what makes me hopeful as I look ahead. When I came to interview, the people at UI Health Care are what made the difference. The kindness shown to me as a stranger coming in the door was amazing. You may think, “Well, that’s just normal. That’s just how we are.” I’ve been to enough places to know that you don’t find that everywhere. Our team moves with a sense of purpose, and people come together for the good of patients and each other. That makes a difference; it’s the kind of organization people want to be part of. And this is what makes me, and I hope all of you, hopeful as we move into the next chapter in our story. For those of you who already know me, you know I am people focused and use data to guide my decisions. I believe a leader should be grounded and attuned to the people they lead. I frequently walk the halls while rounding, meeting with faculty, staff, students, and volunteers. What I continue to see and hear inspires me every day, and I’m so proud of our successes. Our organization has been caring for patients for well over a century. As UI Health Care has grown, so has our impact, even in challenging times. As interim CEO, I plan to continue building and strengthening the foundation of our organization. It’s not something I’ll do alone. We’re returning to a more normal model of business operations as we move forward out of the most challenging days of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re also preparing for the next Joint Commission visit. To be successful in these things, we’ll need our entire team. Whether you’re caring for patients, teaching others, improving operations, researching new treatments, supporting new technologies and innovations, or simply offering a helping hand when people need it most, please know that your passion and hard work are noticed and appreciated. Thank you for your daily contributions. I’m excited to be on this journey with you. Kimberly D. Hunter, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC |
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