A Fond Farewell: Michelle McEwen’s Last Chapter at Speare Memorial Hospital

Well, change, as they say, is the only constant. And indeed, the healthcare landscape in central New Hampshire is about to see a significant one. After more than a decade at the helm, a truly remarkable run, Michelle McEwen, the esteemed CEO of Speare Memorial Hospital, has announced her intention to retire in early 2026.

Thirteen years, can you imagine? McEwen stepped into the top role back in 2013, a period, frankly, teeming with its own set of unique challenges for healthcare providers everywhere. She’s steered Speare, a vital community institution nestled in Plymouth, through some incredibly choppy waters. Think about it: the seismic shifts brought on by the Affordable Care Act, the sheer, unimaginable strain of the COVID-19 pandemic, and let’s not forget the ever-present economic headwinds that buffet even the most robust organizations. Yet, through it all, she’s not only kept the ship steady but, frankly, she’s guided it to new horizons.

Under her meticulous, thoughtful leadership, Speare Memorial has truly blossomed. Services, for instance, saw considerable expansion. Cardiology, orthopedics, women’s health—these aren't just buzzwords, you know; they represent real, tangible access to specialized care that local residents once might have had to travel far for. Wound care, primary care too, grew under her watch, ensuring that the hospital’s reach extended well beyond its immediate walls. She championed the implementation of an electronic health record system, a massive undertaking by any measure, modernizing operations and, dare I say, bringing Speare squarely into the 21st century.

Financial stability, a cornerstone for any successful hospital, remained a constant priority, allowing for these crucial expansions, including facility upgrades in both Plymouth and Ashland. Honestly, it’s quite a testament to her vision and perseverance. Her unwavering focus, you could say, has always been on delivering top-notch patient care and bolstering the overall health of the community Speare serves. It wasn't just about the bottom line, it was about the people.

Now, as for the future? The hospital’s Board of Directors, showing real foresight, has already mapped out a year-long transition plan. They’re engaging a national search firm, embarking on what will undoubtedly be a comprehensive search for McEwen’s successor. It’s a big pair of shoes to fill, to be sure.

McEwen herself, in a truly human touch, spoke of her desire to dedicate more time to her family and, yes, pursue some personal interests she’s likely put on hold for far too long. There’s a quiet grace in that, isn’t there? Leaving a legacy, then stepping aside for life’s next adventure. Her impact on Speare Memorial, and indeed on the broader central New Hampshire healthcare landscape, will be felt for years to come. A chapter closes, but the story of care continues, thanks in no small part to her.