Dukes Memorial Hospital CEO announces retirement

'It has been a privilege to work alongside the physicians on our Dukes medical staff, our nurses and all of our employees because they are truly committed to providing patients with safe, quality care.'

Debra Close, chief executive officer of Dukes Memorial Hospital, has announced she will retire on Sept. 6. She first joined the hospital in 2007. 

Throughout her career, Close has worked to inspire and motivate people to do whatever it takes to deliver the medical care and services needed by patients. She has consistently prioritized developing strong, collaborative relationships with physicians and employees and strengthening the patient experience.

“We are grateful to Deb for her service and leadership in the service of patients and our community,” said Dr. Neil Stalker, chair of the Dukes Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees. “Her transition to another phase of life is much deserved and we wish her all the best.”

Beginning as a 17-year-old nursing assistant, Close applied her interest in perpetual learning and earned her RN, BSN, MSN, MHA and Certified Professional of Healthcare Quality. She has worked in all clinical areas as an RN and found a passion for cardiac care and hearts. Her skills and ever-growing knowledge led her to leadership opportunities across the many hospitals where she worked, including Critical Care Manager, Diabetes/Renal Unit Manager, Director of Quality/Case Management, Service Line Development, Acquisitions/ Development, Chief Nursing Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive Officer.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside the physicians on our Dukes medical staff, our nurses and all of our employees because they are truly committed to providing patients with safe, quality care,” said Close. “Most memorable to me, and most significant to our community, is this team’s work through the COVID pandemic to sustain medical care and collaborate with local leaders, the health department, first responders, and emergency management.”

In the healthcare industry, Close has served as a regional representative on the Indiana Hospital Association, as a past chair of the Indiana Healthcare Quality Association and as American Hospital Association board representative for Indiana. She has also served on the Region 4 Workforce Board, as a past chair of the Indiana Workforce Board and on the IU Kokomo and IVY Tech advisory boards.

–Lutheran Health Network report