Hospital appoints new president - it's somebody you know

NEWS RELEASE

SAULT AREA HOSPITAL

************************* SAH appoints new president

February 15, 2007 - Sault Area Hospital (SAH)'s board of directors has confirmed Ron Gagnon as president & CEO.

Ron [shown receiving the grand poo-bah treatment last night from Thomas Holzschuder of food-service equipment vendor Burlodge Canada] has been filling the role on an interim basis since July 2006.

According to Ken Wallenius, chair of SAH's board of directors: "During the past six months, we have had the opportunity to carefully monitor Ron's performance and are pleased with the work he has done. In particular, by working closely with physicians and staff, he has been able to stabilize our emergency department and keep the new hospital project on track – all during a very challenging time for SAH."

Wallenius added: "The board is confident that Ron has the necessary skills, ability and knowledge to lead SAH though these difficult times. We were impressed by the balanced approach he brings to patient care and fiscal responsibility. Also of importance, Ron has been fully involved in our new hospital project – as our new president & CEO, he will ensure continuity and stability in moving this important community project forward."

According to Dr. Alan McLean, SAH's chief of staff: "As interim president and CEO, Ron has shown exceptional leadership skills and a passion for improving the delivery of health care to our community. I congratulate not only him but SAH's board for making the right decision."

Ron was previously SAH's senior vice president - chief financial officer, joining SAH in 2001.

Prior to joining SAH, Ron was a senior executive with the largest water services organization in Canada.

He is a certified management accountant (CMA) and holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from Laurentian University.

"I want to extend my thanks to the board for its confidence. I am truly honoured to work with the dedicated people at SAH as we strive for excellent hospital services," said Gagnon. "I am excited and optimistic about what the future will bring, both for our hospital and my hometown."

A native of Sault Ste. Marie, Ron and his wife Patty have three children who are actively involved in many sporting and other activities in the community.

Ron enjoys helping out as an assistant minor hockey coach and is a board member at Sault College.