[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 152 (Thursday, September 21, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1246]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING STEVE McKERNAN

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 21, 2017

  Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today 
with great honor to recognize Steve McKernan, Chief Executive Officer 
of University of New Mexico Hospitals, as he prepares for his 
retirement after 37 years of service to the people of Bernalillo County 
and the State of New Mexico.
  In 1980, Mr McKernan began his career at the University of New Mexico 
Hospital. Mr. McKernan began as a staff accountant and worked his way 
up through the organization, becoming CEO in 1996. During his 21 years 
as CEO, Mr. McKernan was an integral part of a team relentlessly 
focused on improving the care of the people of New Mexico.
  Thanks to Mr McKernan's vision and leadership, UNM Hospitals provide 
the level and specialties of care that are only available in the 
largest teaching hospitals in the country. During Mr. McKernan's 
tenure, the Barbara and Bill Richardson Pavilion opened in 2008 and a 
network of community-based clinics was established, providing 
healthcare throughout the City of Albuquerque.
  In addition to his achievements in growing the mission and reach of 
UNM Hospitals, Mr. McKernan has gained national prominence in the 
hospital community, serving on the Board of the America's Essential 
Hospitals. He has also been involved in a variety of local community 
and business groups, including the Rotary Club, the New Mexico Hospital 
Association and the Boy Scouts of America.
  It is with great honor and privilege that I take this moment to thank 
Steve for his service and commitment to our community, the lives of New 
Mexicans are forever changed because of his work. I wish him and his 
wife Becky an enjoyable and well-deserved retirement.

                          ____________________