by Mike Del Trecco, VAHHS President & CEO
We lost Tom Huebner this week, and it was a big blow for our state. Tom was a partner, a leader, a fixer and a believer that gifted Vermont with his grace, poise, skill and heart. Tom was forever optimistic—a devoted family man, full of love, and driven by a deep sense of purpose. That’s why he accomplished so much. His dedication to Vermont, especially to healthcare, was unwavering. He led Rutland Regional Medical Center for two decades and gave everything he had to make our state a better, healthier place.
He always kept his eye on the greater good, seeking the right path forward—not necessarily the easiest or the one that best served RRMC, but the one that was honest, filled with integrity, and truly in Vermont’s best interest.
He was an unassuming but unmistakable solver of intractable problems and in health care, those are never too far away. He did so with compassion and resolve. When Tom was called to serve—on a board, a committee, at a distressed organization, you name it— we’d all breathe a collective sigh of relief.
Tom’s impact over 30 years in Vermont health care is nothing short of massive. I’ve heard from friends, former health care leaders and colleagues all week expressing their deep sadness at this loss and profound gratitude for all Tom gave to us, and to Vermont. I’d like to share two notes I received from my good friends and predecessors at VAHHS that I believe beautifully illustrate the impact Tom has had on our state and the legacy of service he leaves.
From Jeff Tieman, President and CEO of the Colorado Hospital Association:
Even though I had not seen Tom Huebner in almost two years, he is on my mind a lot. I think of his careful wisdom, the way he could ask the tough questions but do so with respect and the intent to create dialogue instead of debate—conversation instead of confrontation. He was a master at that.
For me, Tom defined the terms statesman and mentor. He represented the community of hospitals, never just his own—and always in service of Vermonters. He was a wonderful diplomat and a kind, thoughtful person. I learned so much from him—about advocacy, about worklife balance, about life. I will miss him dearly and regularly.
From Bea Grause, President of the Hospital Association of New York State:
I think what stands out the most to me was Tom’s unmatched clarity of purpose and vision, which I believe came from his honesty, integrity and authenticy. In the moment, Tom could “cut the crap” as he liked to say and explain the unexplainable in a way that everyone could understand.
Of course, it’s also hard to think about Tom without thinking about how much he loved life. He made work fun. You could tell he was in the room just by hearing his unmistakable laugh. He lit up the room with his smile, his hugs and his “let’s roll up our sleeves” approach to solving problems and erasing disagreements by bringing everyone to the table.
He was my mentor and my friend and always an inspiration to me and so many others. Tom was one of those very rare leaders who not only made an impact in his own right but also remained passionately committed to all those who worked with him, so they would become better leaders as well. Vermont has sadly lost a giant of a man.
Tom was more than a colleague or a mentor; he was a true friend—always nearby, always present when you needed him most. His kindness, wisdom, and steadfast support will be deeply missed. I hope we can all hold on to a page from the Tom Huebner guide to leadership: show up, do the work, be kind.
Thanks for reading a bit about our friend. Have a great week.
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