COMMUNITY MEMORIAL ANNOUNCES NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) is pleased to announce Kathryn (Kate) Willbarger as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective May 26, 2026.
A healthcare executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience, Willbarger brings a proven track record in hospital operations, financial stewardship, and strategic growth. She most recently served as Chief Operating Officer at Cheshire Medical Center in Keene, New Hampshire, where she oversaw day-to-day operations for a $340 million health system and played a key role in advancing clinical access, patient experience, and organizational performance.
During her tenure, Willbarger led significant transformation efforts, including improving patient access, expanding clinical capacity through major facility investments, and increasing employee engagement and patient satisfaction. In collaboration with executive leadership, she also helped achieve substantial financial improvements through operational efficiencies and strategic growth initiatives. Willbarger also served as Interim Chief Executive Officer, providing organizational leadership during a critical transition period.
“We are so pleased to welcome Kate to Community Memorial,” said Ellen Percy Kraly, CMH Board Chair. “Her proven success and collaborative and generous spirit will bring so much to our organization and our communities.”
Willbarger is known for her collaborative leadership style and strong commitment to community-centered care. Her experience spans finance, operations, governance, and system integration, with deep involvement in strategic planning and board engagement. She has led initiatives in physician alignment, workforce development, and community engagement—key priorities that align with Community Memorial’s mission.
Community Memorial’s current CEO, Jeff Coakley, announced his retirement in the fall of 2025 with a commitment to stay on until his replacement was found. The Hospital’s Board, along with selected members of the medical staff and leadership team, worked with search firm WittKiefer to lead an extensive, national search for the next CEO.
“I am honored to join Community Memorial Hospital and serve the Hamilton community,” said Willbarger. “I look forward to working alongside the dedicated team to expand access to care, strengthen services and build on the hospital’s strong foundation to meet the evolving needs of the community.”
Willbarger earned a master’s degree in Healthcare Delivery Science from Dartmouth College and a bachelor’s in Accounting from Assumption College, where she graduated as valedictorian.
Community Memorial is committed to improving health outcomes through education, prevention, and exceptional care. Community Memorial offers primary and specialty care across multiple locations—Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, Sherrill, New Hartford, Utica and Waterville—and continues to expand services to meet the needs of the region. To learn more about heart health services or upcoming community events, visit www.communitymemorial.org.