Corydon, October 16, 2012: Dr. Gary Runyon, D.V.M. was the honored recipient of the Iowa Hospital Association’s distinguished Excellence in Governance Award. Dr. Runyon, the current Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Wayne County Hospital, accepted the award at the Chair’s Reception of the Iowa Hospital Association’s Annual meeting held October 10th at the Marriott Hotel in Des Moines.
The Excellence in Governance Award was established as a memorial to Ernie Hayes, a 40-year trustee for Henry County Health Center in Mount Pleasant. It represents the selfless dedication to governance service for the benefit of the people, the hospitals and communities throughout Iowa.
Dr. Runyon, who has served on the Wayne County Hospital Board of Trustees for over 30 years, was praised for his stewardship, providing steadfast guidance and a positive influence over the years to ensure continual access to quality health care for our community. Dr. Runyon was recognized as a visionary, for maintaining high standards and providing excellent guidance; for his ability to organize community support for new ventures; and for always knowing the facts before making any decisions pertaining to the hospital’s future.
Dr. Runyon has been a member of the community for 45 years and an active member of the Corydon United Methodist Church during that time. He joined the Corydon Veterinary Clinic in 1967 becoming a partner in 1969 and worked there until his retirement in 2008. Throughout the years Dr. Runyon has been active in many community organizations including the Wayne County Cattleman’s Association, the Corydon Lions Club and served on the Wayne Community School Board. In addition, he has assisted the Iowa State University Veterinary School by interviewing prospective students. Dr. Runyon and his wife, Georgia, raised their three children, Dan, Tim and Amy in the community and are the proud grandparents of 7 grandchildren.
This award is presented each year to a single board member who has provided exceptional governance for an Iowa hospital. The nomination criteria state that the individual selected has demonstrated their commitment as a strategic thinker, a diplomat and leader for the betterment of their community health care. Thank you and congratulations Dr. Runyon.