SMJH Presidental Transition

Rita Bunch Steps Down in September

Rita has accepted the position of Market CEO of Erlanger Health East and North Campuses. Located in Chattanooga, this move allows her to return to her home state of Tennessee, where she will be closer to her family and take advantage of an exciting career opportunity.

While we are very sorry to see her go, Rita has been a strong force in improving health for all members of our community. During her tenure, we opened the new Downtown Outpatient Care Center at 10th and High Street, improving access to essential services such as imaging, primary care, and obstetrics and gynecological services. Additionally, she partnered with Sentara Medical Group to strengthen our core service lines, led the restructuring of the Emergency Department to improve patient experience, and collaborated with UVA to create the upcoming Pediatric Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Health Care outpatient clinic. 

"Rita's passion, integrity, and forward-thinking approach have been instrumental in advancing our hospital's mission and nurturing the Caring Tradition," says Carol Hurt, Hospital Board Chair. "Her compassionate leadership and commitment to both our team and the broader community will be missed. I am incredibly grateful for her many contributions, and I wish her all the best as she embarks on this new and exciting chapter."

"It's been an incredible honor to serve the Charlottesville community and lead Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital over the past 2.5 years," Rita says. "The dedication and passion of our team have been truly inspiring, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such committed professionals. I will always cherish the time I spent here and the meaningful impact we've made together." 

Rita's last day will be September 13. Sentara Regional President Paul Gaden will assume the role of interim Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital president. We look forward to ensuring a smooth transition maintaining the highest possible standard of care for our community.