Shepherd Center Executive and Leadership Team

Beth Boatwright, the Chief Financial Officer at Shepherd Center, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the not-for-profit healthcare facility. Boatwright oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the organization's long-term financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with healthcare financial regulations. By implementing robust financial controls, Beth Boatwright supports the hospital's mission of providing specialized treatment, research, and rehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injury, brain injury, and other neuromuscular conditions. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to all financial reporting and analysis, providing critical insights for strategic decision-making and operational efficiency across all departments.

Shari McDowell, the Chief Operating Officer at Shepherd Center, manages the day-to-day operations of the renowned rehabilitation hospital. McDowell directs patient care services, facility management, and operational efficiency, ensuring seamless delivery of specialized medical treatment and rehabilitation programs. This executive function involves optimizing workflows, enhancing patient throughput, and maintaining the highest standards of clinical operations. By coordinating across various departments, Shari McDowell ensures that the hospital effectively serves patients with spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and other complex neuromuscular conditions. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include driving operational improvements, managing resources, and fostering a culture of excellence to support the center's research and patient care objectives.

Ken Satcher, the Chief Technology Officer at Shepherd Center, architects and executes the organization's technology vision and strategy. Satcher oversees the integration of advanced technological solutions to support patient care, research, and rehabilitation efforts. This critical role involves evaluating and implementing new technologies that enhance operational efficiency and patient outcomes in areas such as spinal cord injury and brain injury recovery. By driving technological innovation, Ken Satcher ensures Shepherd Center remains at the forefront of medical advancements. The Chief Technology Officer's purview includes managing IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital transformation initiatives, all aimed at bolstering the hospital's capacity to provide cutting-edge care and conduct groundbreaking research.

Barry Fitts, the Vice President, Chief Information Officer at Shepherd Center, leads the strategic direction and management of the organization's information systems. Fitts ensures the integrity, security, and accessibility of all data critical to patient care, research, and administrative functions. This executive position involves overseeing the development and implementation of IT infrastructure, electronic health records, and data analytics platforms. By optimizing information systems, Barry Fitts directly supports the hospital's mission to provide specialized rehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injury, brain injury, and other neurological conditions. The Vice President, Chief Information Officer's focus is on leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and improve patient outcomes.

Katy Conway, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Shepherd Center, directs all human capital strategies and initiatives for the healthcare facility. Conway oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, benefits, and organizational culture, ensuring a highly skilled and motivated workforce. This leadership function is vital for attracting and retaining top medical and research professionals dedicated to treating spinal cord injury, brain injury, and other complex conditions. By fostering a supportive and engaging work environment, Katy Conway enhances employee satisfaction and retention, directly impacting the quality of patient care and research outcomes. The Chief Human Resources Officer champions initiatives that align with the center's mission and values, promoting professional growth and well-being across the organization.

Brian Barnette, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Shepherd Center, spearheads the strategic planning and execution of information technology initiatives. Barnette ensures the robust performance and security of the hospital's IT infrastructure, supporting critical functions in patient care, research, and rehabilitation. This role involves managing technology resources, implementing innovative digital solutions, and safeguarding sensitive patient data. By enhancing the technological framework, Brian Barnette directly contributes to the center's ability to provide specialized treatment for individuals with spinal cord injury, brain injury, and other neuromuscular disorders. The Vice President & Chief Information Officer's leadership drives operational excellence and supports the advancement of medical knowledge.

Michael Yochelson, the Chief Medical Officer at Shepherd Center, provides executive leadership and clinical oversight for all medical services. Yochelson directs the development and implementation of clinical protocols, ensuring the highest standards of care for patients with spinal cord injury, brain injury, and other complex neurological conditions. This pivotal role involves guiding medical staff, advancing research initiatives, and fostering a culture of clinical excellence and innovation. By shaping the medical direction, Michael Yochelson ensures that Shepherd Center remains a leader in rehabilitation medicine. The Chief Medical Officer's responsibilities include promoting evidence-based practices, enhancing patient safety, and driving the strategic growth of the hospital's medical programs.