Leadership Change at St. Joseph’s Hospital

WVU Medicine St. Joseph's Hospital in Buckhannon, West Virginia, has appointed John Forester as its new Interim President and Chief Executive Officer. His appointment is effective immediately after long-term leader Skip Gjolberg's planned retirement which he announced earlier this year.

Professional Background of John Forester

Forester brings more than 30 years of experience in healthcare leadership. He has held various senior positions at West Virginia United Health System and WVU Medicine, including his role as Vice President of Physician Services at United Hospital Center and WVU Health System. He worked as both interim president and CEO at Summersville Regional Medical Center and Braxton County Memorial Hospital from 2024 to 2025.

Career Progression and Expertise

Forester started his healthcare career when he became a billing clerk at Sistersville General Hospital in 1992. He progressed to various executive positions which included his work as Chief Financial Officer and business office manager throughout his career. His wide-ranging operational skills which include finance and clinical services and executive leadership make him an ideal candidate to manage hospital operations during this period of change.

Role at St. Joseph’s Hospital

The interim president and CEO position at St. Joseph's Hospital has been assigned to Forester who will lead the hospital until WVU Medicine finds a new replacement for Gjolberg through their national hiring process. His immediate focus includes maintaining high-quality patient care and supporting ongoing initiatives that align with the hospital's mission and community needs.

Appreciation for Outgoing Leadership

Forester thanked the community and staff for their warm welcome and expressed gratitude for Gjolberg’s years of service. Gjolberg led the hospital during a period of almost ten years which included its growth phase and stability phase and strategic development phase.

Personal Notes

Forester, who hails from West Virginia lives in Morgantown with his wife and three daughters and four grandchildren. He showed his dedication to the hospital mission through his dedication to delivering high-quality care services which benefited patients and families in Buckhannon.