Asante names a new president and CEO

After a national search, the Asante Board of Directors has named Tom Gessel to lead the organization.

Following a nationwide search, the Asante Board of Directors has named Tom Gessel to lead our organization as the new president and chief executive officer effective Sept. 18.

Gessel brings 20 years of experience in health care at the executive level and nearly 35 years of experience in the industry overall. Most recently he served as the group president of a not-for-profit 20-hospital system operating in Colorado and Kansas.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors I am pleased to welcome Tom to the Asante team as the new president and chief executive officer,” said Peter Angstadt, Asante board chair. “His impressive and extensive health care experience and his open, personable and enthusiastic leadership style made him our top choice.”

Gessel has broad experience in all areas of health systems, hospitals and provider groups. This includes expertise in strategic planning, operational improvement and oversight of rural and community hospitals, outpatient centers and a large psychiatric hospital. He has developed and implemented strategies proven to grow volumes, improve cost efficiencies and increase the number of physician-group providers.

“Asante’s long-standing service to the communities of Southern Oregon, and national recognition and awards for the highest quality of care, are what drew me into discussions about this opportunity,” Gessel said. “I am motivated and inspired to be a part of a team of passionate caregivers dedicated to serving others.”

During the interview process it was evident that Gessel places great importance on the human side of leadership. “His style aligns well with Asante’s values, and he supports an organization-wide culture of teamwork and collaboration,” said Roy Vinyard, Asante interim president and CEO. “He will work to build strong relationships within Asante and in the community.”

Having worked in places such as Colorado, Kentucky and Tennessee, Gessel says Southern Oregon and Asante have a unique appeal. “All my interactions have affirmed for me that Asante is an organization I will be honored to lead. Our charitable mission calls us to care for all in our communities with compassion and excellence. To be a valued partner, we must listen and respond to the needs of our patients and communities.”

Gessel also shared praise for Asante’s Board of Directors, team members and medical staff for being aligned to provide outstanding health care services. “From birth to end of life and all of life’s incredible moments in between, we want to be the best choice for care, comfort and healing for the whole person. The culture of whole-person care starts with our staff and providers. We will care for our people, so they can best care for others.”

Gessel holds a Master of Science degree in health administration and has been board-certified as a health care executive for more than 20 years.

He and his wife, Kelly, look forward to their upcoming move to the Rogue Valley. “Southern Oregon strikes me as a wonderful place to live and work, truly a beautiful and vibrant place to make our new home. We love being outdoors, hiking, biking, and visiting family and friends. We look forward to getting immersed in our new community.”

Gessel succeeds Scott Kelly, who retired in February, and Roy Vinyard who has served in the interim role since October 2022.

By Asante Press Release