After 12 years as the executive director of The HaysMed Foundation, Ruth Heffel has announced her retirement set for August 31.

Heffel has guided The Foundation through major growth and established processes that will continue to offer structured expansion opportunities for generations to come.

“I have been so blessed with the opportunity to meet and work with exceptionally skilled and dedicated doctors, nurses, and staff at the medical center. Their concern for our patients is truly heartfelt. The Foundation has also been extremely fortunate to have passionate, influential board members whose mission is to help HaysMed thrive. Their work has assisted people of all ages, from newborns to seniors, who have had their health restored here. To them I offer my sincerest thanks,” Heffel said.

Stepping into the executive director’s office will be Jeff Brull, who joined the team last September as a development officer.

Brull has Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science degrees in Communications from Fort Hays State University and served most recently as Advancement Director at Thomas More Prep-Marian Junior-Senior High in Hays. He is married to Julie Brull, and together they have three children.

“I am excited by the challenges before us because of the opportunities they represent to serve the region through the work of the HaysMed Foundation. I am passionate about western Kansas and will continue to build on the legacy established under Ruth’s leadership through the HaysMed Foundation Board of Directors and the many generous donors and advocates who make life better for us all,” said Brull.

The Foundation provides vital philanthropic support to help fund life-saving equipment, special projects and programs for HaysMed that will positively impact the health of our region. Examples include spearheading capital construction projects and vital medical equipment purchases that expand or improve medical services, providing resources for associate improvement through certification and conference opportunities, and by underwriting programs like the annual community flu vaccination drive, community CPR training, scholarships, and more.