LYNCHBURG – Bedford native E.W. Tibbs, Jr. was named Centra president and CEO Monday night by the Centra Board of Directors.

“With E.W. having played such an important role in every aspect of Centra, including Southside Community Hospital, I have no doubt that Centra is in good hands,” said Kenneth S. White, Centra Board chairman. “As Centra expands to meet the needs of the region, having someone who is well versed in these communities will be of paramount importance.”

Tibbs had been the Centra senior vice-president and chief operating officer as well as the president and CEO of Centra Southside Community Hospital in Farmville. Centra will be making a decision soon on who will follow Tibbs at Centra Southside.

Tibbs joined Centra in 2006, having previously served as president and CEO of Bedford Memorial Hospital. He is a registered nurse and holds a bachelor of science degree in nursing as well as a master's degree in business administration.

Tibbs' career in healthcare was formed at an early age by his mother and sister who were both nurses, and his experience as a teenage volunteer with the local rescue squad. After college Tibbs joined a hospital emergency department, where he worked for a decade. He helped treat patients during their most vulnerable times, and always considered it a privilege to care for others. As someone who has cared directly for patients and has expertise in healthcare finances, Tibbs has a well rounded view of how an excellent healthcare system should operate.

“My background helps me stay balanced,” Tibbs said. “My nursing experience shaped me to be what I try to be every day – a servant leader. Nursing helps me ensure the patient is at the center of everything we do. And my business education helps me stay focused on the big picture and the future of the industry. But, in the end, it isn't about me. I have a role to play. Part of that role is ensuring that we have consistent, measurable standards and a clear understanding that we exist to serve. We have an unending quest to improve.”