Bonnie Adamson retires as President and CEO of London Health Sciences Centre

A short while ago, Bonnie Adamson announced her retirement as the President and CEO of London Health Sciences Centre. In doing so, she shared a message with her colleagues across the city and province. The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry thanks Bonnie for her tireless commitment to health care and wishes her all the best.

Bonnie's message:

It is with great appreciation to the Board of Directors and to all of you that I express my sincere thank you for the privilege of serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of London Health Sciences Centre.

Forty-five years ago, I graduated as a nurse. I have enjoyed an extensive career in many management and leadership roles, including serving as CEO for the last sixteen years. For over half of my career, I had the joy of working at Victoria Hospital and London Health Sciences Centre. Every day, I learned about the wisdom of the extraordinary people with whom I worked - I learned about the value of scientific discovery, of ongoing education and especially the compassion required to provide exceptional patient care.

After several months of leave of absence for family matters and after serious consideration, I wish to inform you of my decision to retire from the position of President and CEO of London Health Sciences Centre, effective April 15, 2014.

My decision was made easier, knowing that the hospital has a strong interim arrangement with Murray Glendining as Acting President and CEO. I am confident that the strategic priorities will continue without disruption. Murray has my complete confidence and I know we can count on his leadership during this interim period.

Over time, I experienced the hospital both as an employee and from the patient and family perspective. I continue to be reassured by the high quality of care that our staff and physicians provide. Your commitment and expertise contribute to making LHSC one of Canada's finest academic centres.

I am proud of your accomplishments aligned to the organization's strategic direction and am pleased to see that our cultural leadership transformation continues. It is my belief that personal accountability and a spirit of continuous improvement create a solid foundation for success. I trust that each one of you will continue to learn, to innovate and to drive continuous improvement in the leadership and provision of patient care. I leave knowing that the patients and families at LHSC are in good hands.

As our health-care system continues to transition and evolve, I am certain that LHSC will thrive and demonstrate true system leadership.

Always remember "It is all about Leadership" and "Everyone is a Leader in whatever role you hold" - including the frontline care and service providers who perform so valiantly every day.

My friends and colleagues - I wish each and every one of you continued personal and professional success as you move forward.