Ellinwood Hospital and Clinics Board Actively Engaged in CEO Search, Announces Interim Leadership

ELLINWOOD, Kan. — The search continues for a new Chief Executive Officer at Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic. The hospital board is actively moving forward through the interview process of numerous qualified applicants.

The hospital received nearly 60 resumes from candidates representing Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, and numerous other states. From the 58 applications received, the Board selected six candidates for initial interviews.

The Board completed six first-round interviews over a two-week period, with candidates appearing either in person or virtually. Following those interviews, two candidates were selected for more in-depth follow-up interviews, which were conducted last night. Both candidates will be invited back after the holidays for a formal, on-site interview process as the Board continues its evaluation.

Hospital officials announced the temporary appointment of Summer Zink, CFO, and Jill Ritchie, CNO, as Co-Interim Chief Executive Officers during the transition period.

Under this structure, Zink will oversee administrative operations, while Ritchie will oversee clinical operations, maintaining stability across all hospital and clinic services. Hospital leadership emphasized that there will be no changes to patient care, access, or services as a result of the transition.

“The Board is confident in the strength of our leadership team and the operational stability of Ellinwood Hospital and Clinics,” board president David Gonzales said. “Our focus remains on providing high-quality, compassionate care while thoughtfully selecting the next permanent CEO.”

The Board is actively reviewing candidates and conducting interviews, with the goal of appointing a new Chief Executive Officer in early 2026. Officials noted strong interest in the position and reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to transparency and ongoing communication with the community.

Hospital leaders emphasized that Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic remains on a strong trajectory, with continued growth in services, facilities, and specialty care. The transition is part of a deliberate process to ensure long-term stability and continued investment in local healthcare.

The Board also expressed its sincere gratitude to Kile Magner for his 10 years of leadership at Ellinwood Hospital and Clinics. Magner will be assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer at Myrtue Medical Hospital in Harlan, Iowa.

“We thank Kile for his dedication and leadership and wish him continued success,” Gonzales said. “Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic remains strong, well-positioned for the future, and committed to serving our community.”

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