Executive director out at SEMO Health Network; vacancy occurs following FBI search warrant

NEWMADRID, Mo. -- The executive director of SEMO Health Network for the past decade is no longer affiliated with the organization.

"Cheryl White is no longer employed by the SEMO Health Network and that is really all we have right now that we can share," Sarah Ezell, marketing director for the SEMO Health Network, said when asked for comment.

White had served as the chief executive officer for the federally-funded community health program since November 2003. According to SEMO Health Network's website, Chris Jones is serving as the interim CEO.

A search warrant was executed Nov. 14 by the Federal Bureau of Investigation at the health care facility, which has its central office in New Madrid and health facilities throughout the Bootheel. The search warrant was for administrative records at the administrative office in New Madrid and agents reportedly made copies of documents.

Following the serving of the warrant, the facilities reopened and have continued to provide primary and preventive health care services. SEMO Health Network officials noted at that time the organization was cooperating with the investigation and that it was audited on a regular basis.

A native of Matthews, White received her bachelor of science degree in education from Southeast Missouri State University as well as a minor in computer science and middle school science. She was an instructor for 19 years in the Risco R-2 School District.

White also became certified as a proposal writer for foundation and government funding. In 2002 she was named the chief operations officer for SEMO Health Network to oversee various programs.

SEMO Health Network has clinic locations in the Southeast Missouri towns of Benton, Bernie, Kennett, Matthews, New Madrid, Portageville and Sikeston. On its website, the organization claims its mission is to provide quality care in medically underserved rural communities and to provide services regardless of the patient's ability to pay.