Adena Health Board of Trustees Appoints New Chair, Announces Leadership and New Members
Article Presented By Adena Health…
CHILLICOTHE, OH (January 14, 2026) – The Adena Health Board of Trustees has appointed new officers and welcomed new members who will help guide the health system’s continued commitment to high-quality care and service to the nine counties it serves across south central and southern Ohio.
Bob French, who represents St. Peter’s Catholic Church, has been appointed chair of the Board of Trustees. French, who has served on the board for eight years and most recently as vice chair, succeeds Steve Hirsch, an at-large board member. Hirsch will continue to serve on the board in the role of past chair, providing continuity and leadership support.
Joining French as board officers are Kevin Shoemaker, who represents Orchard Hill United Church of Christ, as vice chair; Brian Ream, an at-large member, as treasurer; and Bill Knoles, who represents First Presbyterian Church, as secretary.
In addition to naming its officers, the board welcomed two new members whose experience and diverse backgrounds will further strengthen Adena’s governance. Susan Gearhart, who represents Walnut Street United Methodist Church, brings more than two decades of financial and business leadership experience to the board, including senior roles in banking and extensive service on local economic development and community boards.
Lois Jetty, MD, joins the board representing Tabernacle Baptist Church. Dr. Jetty is a pediatrician who has been with Adena for more than 30 years and brings a clinician’s insight and deep connection to the organization. Her husband, Sathish Jetty, MD, currently serves as a member of the board too.
The board also recognized Jennifer McKell and Carvel Simmons for their years of service and dedication to Adena. Both recently completed the maximum number of terms allowed under board bylaws.
Adena is governed by a 13-member Board of Trustees that reflects both the health system’s historic roots and the needs of the communities it serves. The board includes representatives from the seven churches that founded the organization in 1895, along with at-large members and representatives from the health system’s medical staff. Together, trustees bring a wide range of expertise and perspectives to support Adena’s mission and strategic direction.
For more about Adena Health, its health care providers, and full range of services, visit Adena.org, or follow Adena on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or X @adenamedical.
