After more than four decades of dedicated service to the healthcare industry, Thomas M. Kurtz, President and CEO of Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber (Windber Hospital) and the Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber (previously Windber Research Institute), has announced his decision to retire this spring. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Kurtz has been a visionary leader, guiding the organizations to significant growth and development in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. His retirement marks the end of an era for both the hospital and the institute.
Mr. Kurtz’s tenure at the Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber began in 2009, and he took the helm of Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber in 2014. Under his leadership, the medical center became a cornerstone of healthcare excellence in the region. He oversaw the creation of several key facilities and programs that improved patient care and expanded services for the community, including the establishment of a state-of-the-art catheterization lab, the addition of six off-site physical therapy locations, and the creation of an orthopedic walk-in clinic. His leadership also facilitated a vital orthopedic affiliation agreement with Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), enhancing access to specialized care for patients.
In addition to strengthening hospital services, Mr. Kurtz helped drive significant advancements in biomedical research at the Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber. Under his leadership, the institute became a leader in molecular medicine, adding state-of-the-art research equipment, such as additional freezers, and significantly expanding its tissue sample repository.
Perhaps most notably, Mr. Kurtz was instrumental in building a significant relationship with Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, a renowned innovator and medical pioneer. This collaboration elevated both the hospital and research institute, bringing national recognition to Windber’s patient care and biomedical research initiatives. Through this partnership, the medical center gained access to advanced technologies and innovative treatment approaches, while the institute expanded its role as a leader in molecular medicine. The integration of cutting-edge research with clinical care has strengthened Windber’s reputation as a hub for personalized medicine, scientific discovery, and high-quality healthcare. Mr. Kurtz’s leadership in fostering this partnership has helped ensure that both institutions remain at the forefront of innovation for years to come.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber and the Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber,” said Mr. Kurtz. “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a dedicated team that is truly committed to advancing patient care and research. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of these organizations in the years to come.”
Before his impactful work at Windber, Mr. Kurtz had a long and successful career in healthcare management. He held leadership positions at several prominent healthcare organizations, including the American Red Cross, Carlisle Hospital, Conemaugh Health System, Lee Regional Health System, and UPMC. He also played a key role in consulting and policy development, advising both the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Pennsylvania State Senate on healthcare issues.
A native of the Johnstown area, Mr. Kurtz holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and an MBA in Medical Practice Management from the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. His commitment to service extends beyond healthcare, as he has been an active participant in several local and national nonprofit organizations, including serving as a trustee on the University of Pittsburgh’s Board of Trustees and as chairman of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown Advisory Board.
Throughout his career, Mr. Kurtz has been a strong advocate for healthcare research and development. His contributions to the field are immeasurable, from his work in creating strategic partnerships that expanded access to care to leading clinical research efforts that have improved lives both locally and internationally.
As Mr. Kurtz transitions into retirement, Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber and the Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber will continue to build on the foundation he established, ensuring that his legacy of excellence in patient care, research, and community service endures.