ELLINWOOD — Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic Chief Executive Officer Kile Magner has announced he will be stepping down from his position at the end of the year after 10 years of service. Magner has accepted an administrative role at another health-care facility and will begin his new position in January 2026.

Magner has served as CEO since 2015, leading the hospital through a period of tremendous growth and transformation – including the construction and opening of Ellinwood’s new hospital facility in 2024.

“When I first walked through these doors, I could never have imagined how much we would accomplish together – or how deeply this place, and the entire team, would come to mean to me,” Magner said. “One of the proudest milestones of my life will always be standing beside the team as we built and opened the new hospital – not just a new building, but a lasting symbol of hope, teamwork, and commitment to the community we serve.”

During his tenure, Magner oversaw expansions in patient care services, the modernization of hospital operations, and strengthened partnerships across central Kansas.

“What I will cherish most isn’t the projects or milestones — it’s the people,” Magner said. “The laughter, the problem-solving, the compassion shown to patients and to one another – this hospital family has been a privilege to lead.”

The Ellinwood Hospital Board of Trustees expressed appreciation for Magner’s leadership and dedication to the organization and community.

“Kile’s leadership over the past decade has positioned Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic for a strong future,” board chair David Gonzales said. “His commitment to patient care, fiscal responsibility, and community partnership has left a lasting mark. We thank him for his years of service and wish him the very best in his next chapter.”

Magner’s last day will be the end of December. The hospital’s Board of Trustees has begun discussions regarding transition planning and the search for his successor.

“Leaving isn’t easy,” Magner said. “This hospital has been far more than a workplace – it’s been part of my life, and this team will always be part of my family. I leave with tremendous pride and full confidence that the future here is bright.”