Southeast Missouri hospital to announce new CEO today

Southeast Missouri Hospital in Cape Girardeau will announce a new president and CEO at an 11 a.m. news conference today.

The announcement, to be made in the Harrison Room at the hospital, 1701 Lacey St., will conclude a yearlong search that began when current president and CEO James Wente announced his retirement. The search for a replacement was handled by St. Louis-based Grant Cooper & Associates.

Wente is stepping down after more than 34 years at the hospital, including 18 years in the top job.

During his tenure, Wente helped establish a nursing college, create the region's first heart and cancer treatment center and nearly doubled total employment at the hospital. The hospital has completed 10 major expansions under Wente's presidency.

The hospital also plans to announce an appointment to what it calls "a new, key position at Southeast."

Pertinent address:

1701 Lacey St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.