In a unanimous decision, the Deaf Smith County Hospital District Board of Directors selected Candice Smith, RN, MSN, RHCNOC, CCRN as CEO. Smith accepted the offer on November 30. Smith had been serving as interim CEO since July of this year.

“I’m honored by the trust the board has placed in me to serve as CEO,” said Smith. “I am deeply committed to the mission and vision of our hospital, clinic, and EMS, and I look forward to guiding our exceptional care team and staff as we provide the best possible care for our community and demonstrate rural health care excellence.”

“Candice’s experience, advanced clinical expertise, and passion for serving the Hereford community make her an excellent choice and the right person to lead our organization,” said Kevin Bunch, board chair of Deaf Smith County Hospital District. “Rural health care has never been more important or challenging, and we are fortunate to have an experienced, compassionate leader in Candice.”

Smith has been with DSCHD as chief nursing officer since 2016 and brings more than 20 years of experience as a nurse and 10 years of experience as a CNO to the role. Smith recently earned her certification as a Rural Health Chief Nursing Officer from the National Rural Hospital Association and is active in numerous civic and community groups including the Panhandle Regional Advisory Council, L’Allegra, Amarillo College Advisory Counsel, CASA board, and Hereford Day Care board. She also serves as a council member on the Texas Disaster Preparedness Committee and is an active member of the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force.