The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation announces that Dan Winkelman will be stepping down as President and CEO of the corporation, effective April 10, 2026. The Board of Directors extends its sincere gratitude for Dan's 25 years of service and 12 years as President and CEO.

"On behalf of the YKHC Board of Directors and our leadership team, we want to express our gratitude for Dan's 25 years of service to our Tribal health organization and his commitment to the health of the people in our region," said Darren Cleveland, Chairman of the YKHC Board.

Under Dan's leadership for the last 12 years as President and CEO, YKHC has made great strides towards its mission: Working together to achieve excellent health. YKHC invested more than $500 million in healthcare infrastructure around the region, including building the new hospital in Bethel, the Qavartarvik Customer Lodge and dozens of new village clinics. The organization adopted a structured, rigorous approach to continuous improvements to quality and safety that always puts the patient first.

Dan shared, "It has been my honor and privilege to contribute to the vision, mission and values of YKHC. With continued championing of the Angyaq Quality System and continued good judgment by the next President and CEO, YKHC is positioned to continue to deliver high quality services, continue yearly profit margins, successfully execute the strategic plans and deliver on the priorities established by delegates at our annual Tribal Gathering."

Interim Leadership

To ensure stability and continuity, the Board has appointed Patricia (Patty) Smith as Interim President and CEO beginning April 11, 2026. Patty currently serves as Vice-President of Outpatient Care and Village Health and brings deep experience to this role, having worked at YKHC for more than 25 years. Patty was born and raised in Bethel and is an Orutsararmiut Native Council (ONC) Tribal member.

"It is an honor to serve as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer," Patty said. "I'd like to thank Dan for his years of strong, steady leadership and extraordinary contributions to the organization and the health of the people of the YK Region. I remain committed to working with our Board, leadership team, and staff to continue advancing our mission and serving our communities."

In the next few weeks, the Board will contract with an executive search firm to begin the search for a permanent CEO. During this time, YKHC remains focused on its mission and the communities it serves. Our leadership team and staff continue to work together to ensure stability, continuity, and progress during this transition.