The Berks Community Health Center is losing its longtime leader.
Mary Kargbo has announced she is retiring from her posts as president and CEO of the health center, which she has led since helping to establish it 14 years ago.
She will remain with the health center through Sept. 12 to support a seamless transition to new leadership. The board of directors said they will be sharing information on that transition in the upcoming days.
Kargbo helped found the health center in 2012, and during her tenure has played an instrumental role in building the organization into a trusted, comprehensive health care provider, the board of directors said in a statement announcing her retirement.
Under her leadership, the health center has expanded access to high-quality, patient-centered care, strengthened community partnerships, and remained steadfast in its mission of improving the health and well-being of individuals and families throughout the county, the statement said.
“Mary’s leadership has shaped the foundation and future of Berks Community Health Center,” said Dr. Michael Baxter, chair of the board of directors. “Her unwavering commitment to expanding access to care, serving our community with compassion and building a mission-driven organization has left an enduring legacy.
“We are deeply grateful for her years of service and the countless lives she has impacted.”
During her tenure, Kargbo championed innovative health care initiatives, fostered meaningful collaborations with community organizations, and helped position the health center as a critical provider of primary, dental, behavioral health and supportive services for the region’s most vulnerable populations, according to the board’s statement.
“The founding of BCHC as an organization is a remarkable achievement; sustaining and growing it into a respected community institution is an extraordinary legacy,” said Pat Giles, one of the founding health center leaders and current board member. “Mary’s vision, perseverance and passion have created a lasting impact that will continue to benefit our patients, employees and community for generations.”
Kargbo said she has felt privileged to have helped create and lead the health center.
“Having the opportunity to lead BCHC since its inception has been the highlight of my professional career, and working side by side with our physicians, medical team and our dedicated staff has been a true honor,” she said. “Most of all, to be part of watching our community be able to access quality healthcare is one of the best impacts I am proud to leave behind.”
A community reception will be held in September to honor Kargbo’s career and to celebrate her contributions to the center and the community it serves. Additional details will be announced soon.