Marshall Health Network longtime Chief Administrative Officer announces retirement

Additional MHN leadership transitions announced

Paul E. Smith, JD, Chief Administrative Officer for Marshall Health Network (MHN), has announced his retirement will be Sept. 30.

“Throughout his 40 years of service, Paul has provided steadfast legal and administrative leadership, guiding our organization with thoughtfulness, compassion and a steady hand,” said Scott Raynes, President and CEO, MHN. “His contributions have been instrumental in helping us grow and serve more than 1.4 million people across the Tri-State region.”

Smith will continue to share his expertise in the role of Special Advisor to the CEO from Sept. 30 through Dec. 31.

In addition, several MHN leadership transitions became effective Friday, Aug. 1.

Beth “Buffy” Hammers, MBA, will assume the role of Chief Engagement Officer for MHN. Hammers will lead system-wide efforts in business development, government and community relations, marketing and communications, and philanthropic engagement. She will continue to serve as Vice Dean of Administration for the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. Hammers, an experienced leader with over 30 years in academic health care administration, most recently served as Chief Integration and External Affairs Officer for MHN.

Melissa Eakle Leasure, JD, has been appointed Chief Legal Officer. Leasure is an experienced leader in health care law, having served as outside counsel for the system for 16 years before joining MHN as General Counsel. She has continued to provide dedicated legal leadership for 2.5 years as General Counsel.

Molly Frick, JD, who has served in the role of Interim Chief Human Resource Officer, has been appointed Chief Human Resource Officer. Frick served as the Director of Human Resources at Cabell Huntington Hospital (CHH) for 11 years. Before joining CHH, she practiced employment and health care law for 16 years.

Andy Mullins, DNP, APRN, who was named Interim Chief Nursing Officer in May, has been appointed Chief Nursing Officer. Mullins brings over 20 years of experience in the nursing field at St. Mary’s Medical Center (SMMC), and most recently served as the Vice President of Nursing at SMMC.

Additionally, the hospital-based leaders’ titles will transition from Chief Operating Officer to President for each of their respective facilities to provide greater role clarity and better align with industry standards. These updates align Tim Martin, President of Cabell Huntington Hospital; Angie Swearingen, President of St. Mary’s Medical Center; and the future President of Rivers Health.

“We are deeply grateful to Paul for his years of dedicated service and lasting legacy,” Raynes said. “Please join me in congratulating these outstanding leaders as we continue to advance health, inspire hope and serve the Tri-State region.”