GRAND FORKS — Altru announced on Tuesday, Jan. 4 that it has selected Todd Forkel as its new CEO .
The decision is effective Feb. 28.
“On behalf of Altru’s CEO search committee, we are thrilled to have Todd joining our leadership team,” Karen Thingelstad, chair of Altru’s Board of Directors, said. “His experience and leadership style make him the perfect leader for Altru. He is a humble servant leader and a visionary who will lead Altru’s path to growth and innovation for generations to come.”
Forkel said he's "excited and honored" to be the next CEO of Altru Health System.
“Altru’s stated vision is to deliver world-class care for those we serve," he said in a news release. "That level of commitment and high standard inspires me. I cannot wait to journey with the 3,600 Altru teammates in the continuation of making that dream a reality.”
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Forkel takes over for Dave Molmen, who has been serving as interim CEO since July 2020 . The official search for Molmen's replacement began in June . The process was delayed due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, and the death of Lonnie Laffen, who had been leading Altru's board at the time of his death in December 2020, the Herald previously reported. Molmen had been appointed to the position after former CEO Brad Wehe was fired in February 2020, the Herald previously reported.
Forkel has more than 24 years of experience in health care and recently served as the regional president and CEO of Avera St. Luke’s on Avera’s executive team and CEO of Avera St. Mary’s Region since 2011. He has also served in roles with Essentia Health, Innovis Health and Mayo Clinic.
Forkel has a master's in business administration from the University of Mary School of Business, a master's degree in health care administration from Cal Coast University, a bachelor's degree in business administration from Northern State University and an associate's degree in radiology sciences from Presentation College.
“My family and I love everything about Altru Health System, as an organization, and the vibrancy of the Greater Grand Forks community,” Forkel said. “We are excited to become part of the team and community in the near future.”
