Speare Memorial Hospital CEO announces retirement in 2026

PLYMOUTH ― After 25 years of dedicated leadership, Speare Memorial Hospital President and CEO Michelle McEwen has announced her plans to retire in the spring of 2026.

“After much reflection and with a deep sense of gratitude, I am writing to share that I will be retiring from my role as CEO this upcoming spring,” McEwen shared with staff in an email. “This decision has not come easily, as serving this hospital and working alongside each of you has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life.”

Since joining Speare in 1994 and assuming the CEO role in 2000, McEwen has led the hospital through a period of significant growth and transformation. Under her leadership, Speare has expanded access to specialty care, modernized facilities, advanced patient safety and quality initiatives, and strengthened partnerships across the region — all while preserving the hospital’s independent, community-centered mission.

“I want to express our deep appreciation to Michelle for the leadership she has provided to all members of the Speare community. It would be hard to overstate the importance of Michelle’s contributions to the success of Speare during the last two and a half decades,” said Steve Camerino, chair of the Speare Memorial Hospital Board of Directors. “We will miss her steady hand at the helm of our organization, but a change in leadership is also an opportunity to find a new leader who can ensure Speare has continued success by building on the remarkable foundation Michelle has created.”

In her message to employees, McEwen emphasized her pride in the organization’s accomplishments and confidence in its future.

“Together, we have faced challenges, celebrated milestones, and continually strived to provide the highest quality care to our patients and community. I am profoundly proud of what we have accomplished — growing our services, improving patient care, and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.”

Camerino has indicated that the board plans to hire an executive recruiting firm to support the board in its search for McEwen’s successor.

McEwen concluded her message by expressing gratitude to her colleagues and the community.

“You have made this hospital not only a place of healing, but a true community. I will always carry with me the memories of my years here at Speare and look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish in the years ahead.”