Todd Forkel has been named the regional president and CEO of Avera St. Luke's Hospital. Forkel, an Aberdeen native, is currently the senior vice president of operations for Essentia in Fargo, N.D., and will begin his new position on December 19.
"Following an extensive national search, we are excited to have Todd returning to Avera in the leadership role at Avera St. Luke's," said Fred Slunecka, chief operating officer for Avera. "Todd brings with him a great deal of skill in leadership at both the hospital and clinic levels. His background and knowledge of the community will help move Avera St. Luke's strategic initiatives forward."
Forkel is a graduate of Aberdeen Central High School, Presentation College and Northern State University. He started his career at Avera St. Luke's as a radiology technologist, later serving as director of radiology and vice president of clinics. He has also served on the Aberdeen city council.
While at Essentia, Forkel led the implementation of an organizational excellence initiative, the electronic medical record and the integration of clinical and support services. He also served as the director of radiology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., where he was instrumental in integration initiatives, implementation of Lean/Six Sigma practices and led educational efforts on health care reform.
"I am very much looking forward to returning to Aberdeen and Avera St. Luke's," said Forkel. "I have always enjoyed working with the people at Avera St. Luke's, and I am encouraged by all the progress being made at the hospital and clinics. I know that together we will be able to continue to provide the highest level of care to the region."
Forkel and his wife, Amy, have three children and will be relocating to Aberdeen in the near future. He replaces Ron Jacobson, who will retire after more than 22 years with Avera.
