Former Chancellor Samuel Mencoff, who led the Brown Corporation from 2016 to 2024, will become the chair of the Board of Directors for Brown University Health on December 9. This news was shared by the hospital system earlier this month.
This appointment follows a new affiliation and investment agreement between the University and the hospital. The hospital system, previously known as Lifespan, has now been renamed Brown University Health.
Mencoff is currently on both the Brown Corporation and the Board of Directors for Brown Health. However, his time on the Corporation will wrap up on June 30. The new agreement states that officials cannot hold both positions simultaneously, as noted by University Spokesperson Brian Clark.
With a rich background in finance, Mencoff was a founding partner and co-CEO of Madison Dearborn Partners. He also serves as the chairman and CEO of Temple Hall Group and holds various leadership roles in institutions like the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the John Carter Brown Library.
John Fernandez, president and CEO of Brown Health, praised Mencoff’s extensive experience. “His deep ties to Brown and his understanding of business, healthcare, and education make him well-suited to lead our system into the future,” he said.
Mencoff’s appointment comes at a significant time for healthcare. A 2023 survey from the American Hospital Association reported that around 90% of hospitals are now prioritizing community health and wellness. This shift reflects a growing trend toward integrated care that focuses not just on treating illnesses but also on preventing them.
As Brown University Health evolves, Mencoff’s business acumen and deep commitment to education could position the hospital system to better meet the needs of the community. With healthcare costs continuing to rise and access becoming a critical issue, strong leadership in health institutions is essential.
For further insights into health and community engagement, you can explore the American Hospital Association’s resources.