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After more than a decade of service to Greater Regional, Carol Eckels has been named chief operating officer of the hospital.
Eckels joined Greater Regional in August 2015 as an HR coordinator. By 2020, she rose up the ranks of staff, becoming a part of Greater Regional’s key leadership with the position of chief clinic officer. Effective Feb. 1, 2026, a new chapter begins as she ascends to a new role of hospital-wide leadership.
“I’m honored,” Eckels said. “It’s a big ask; I’m just proud to help carry the torch.”
The new position helps honor the duties Eckels has taken on within the hospital. When announced during Monday’s regular board meeting, the title was described as a way to recognize the work Eckels takes part in with hospital funcitons.
“Carol’s been with us for about 10 years, so we’re excited about that,” Chief Executive Officer Monte Nietzel said. “I’m excited for all of our aid stuff. I think we do a great job. Just more going to be lining up with the duties Carol does for us at Greater Regional.”
Besides her work with the hospital, Eckels is a prominent figure of her local community in Afton. She serves as board president of the East Union school board and is the vice president of the school’s Dollars for Scholars program.