Despite their praises of Krabbenhoft, the separation between Sanford and Krabbenhoft was inevitable. After searching for a new CEO, Sanford landed upon Bill Gassen, who will be taking over Krabbenhoft’s responsibilities, beginning this week. 

“Gassen is getting settled into his new leadership position after Sanford and Kelby Krabbenhoft parted ways on Tuesday,” said Perry Groten, writer for the Keloland News. “The new CEO says everyone needs to follow CDC guidelines, and that includes wearing a mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19.” 

As stated, Gassen’s take on mask-wearing is quite different than Krabbenhoft’s. In fact, Sanford may be experiencing a lot of changes in the coming weeks, including a mandatory mask mandate throughout their HR building. 

“Bill Gassen says his top priority as the new president and CEO of Sanford Health is listening to the physicians and nurses on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic,” said Groten. 

“I need to hear from them, I need to understand what’s important to them to make sure they’re getting the resources and understand that we’re responsive to those needs,” said Gassen.

The reliance on medical experts and those who contribute to Sanford’s top-notch healthcare is appreciated.

“I haven’t seen the things that more senior health care executives have, so what I’m going to have to do is, I’m going to have to lean into and rely upon experts around me,” said Gassen. 

Overall, this transitional phase is going to bring a lot of change to Sanford, the city of Sioux Falls and the healthcare workers involved. But the optimism and support displayed to Gassen is inspiring during these confusing times.