Gjolberg

BUCKHANNON — WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has announced that Skip Gjolberg will step down as President and CEO of the hospital this spring.

“Serving St. Joseph’s Hospital and this community has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” Gjolberg said. “I’m incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished together and grateful for the opportunity to be part of a hospital that plays such an important role in the lives of so many families.”

Gjolberg has been in his role at St. Joseph’s for nearly 10 years, after taking over in April 2016.

“Skip leaves St. Joseph’s Hospital in a very strong position,” said Dr. Dave Hess, president and CEO of WVU Medicine United Hospital Center and Central Region president. “His leadership, vision and advocacy have had a lasting impact on this hospital and the community it serves.”

John Forester will serve as interim president while the hospital conducts a national search for its next leader. Forester currently serves as vice president of provider network services for WVU Medicine’s central market.

Under Gjolberg’s leadership, the hospital has received many honors, including being named one of the top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the United States by the Chartis Center for Rural Health.

St. Joseph’s Hospital was also recognized with the Gold Honors Achievement Award in the WVHA Commitment to Excellence Honors Program during Gjolberg’s tenure.

Gjolberg came to WVU Medicine from Cuero Community Hospital in Cuero, Texas, where he served as president and CEO. Prior to his stop in Texas, he was the chief administrative officer of the Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital and held leadership positions with the Hospital Sisters Health System in Wisconsin.

Gjolberg, who is a graduate of Texas A&M University and Texas State University, will step away from his positions in mid-March. He served as chair of the West Virginia Hospital Association Board of Directors in 2024.

Gjolberg has been active in his community as chair of the Upshur County Economic Development Corporation, and with the Lions Club, the United Way, Boy Scouts of America, St. Joseph’s Youth Ministry, the Knights of Columbus, and was a founder of the Holy Rosary Parish Men’s Group.

In 2019, the Buckhannon-Upshur Chamber of Commerce named Gjolberg its Business Man of the Year.