With the departure of Chief Executive Officer Eric Sharf, Wendell Foster named an interim leader Wednesday.
Ben Boarman has been named Interim CEO and has been involved with the organization for more than 10 years by volunteering and serving on the Wendell Foster board of directors. He was serving as the vice-chairman prior to being named interim CEO.
Boarman did not comment on the departure of Sharf, saying only that the organization does not make public comments on personnel matters.
Boarman, who is volunteering his time in the interim role, said that his main goal is to continue the progress being made at Wendell Foster, which includes the $3.5 million, 12,600 square-foot outpatient therapy building that is located at the corner of Ninth and Triplett Streets. The building is expected to open in June.
This building will be used by all Wendell Foster programs and will house the physical therapy department. More than 500 clients are served by Wendell Foster.
“Owensboro needs to be proud of this home-grown organization,” he said. “It’s a unique organization.”
There are also several other projects and events that will move forward as planned.
Boarman said he volunteered for the position because of the freedom of his schedule versus other board members, but he added that all board members would have been capable.
“The board is very confident in the staff and the employees,” Boarman said. “I plan to be here as a resource so they can continue.”
The board of directors is putting together a search committee for a permanent CEO, and Boarman said he hopes to transition back into his role on the board as soon as the position is filled. He will not take part in the search committee.
“I am happy to put in all of the work as are all of the employees,” Boarman said. “The board would like to see all programs and events to continue as planned.”
