Martha’s Vineyard Hospital bid an emotional farewell to its outgoing president and chief operating officer on Wednesday at a ceremony attended by hospital staff wearing white coats and blue scrubs.

Denise Schepici will retire on Dec. 31 after eight years at the helm of the Island’s largest employer. During her tenure she led the hospital through the Covid-19 pandemic and recently helped establish the Navigator Homes project in Edgartown, a home for hospital staff and Island seniors.

“To me, it’s always been a sacred trust,” Ms. Schepici said in an interview with the Gazette. “A lot of caring for people at some of the happiest times in their life and some of the saddest. I have never taken that for granted.”

The hospital’s chief nursing and operations officer Claire Seguin will take her place at the helm in the new year. Ms. Seguin came to the hospital in 2019 after previously serving as associate chief quality officer at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Ms. Schepici will pass the baton to Claire Seguin.

Ms. Schepici will pass the baton to Claire Seguin.

During the ceremony, Ms. Seguin told the crowd that Ms. Schepici’s mentorship helped her grow as a healthcare professional and on a personal level.

“When I arrived at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital I carried within me a strong sense of who I was and who I wanted to be as a leader, but Denise is the person who helped me bring that forward,” Ms. Seguin said.

She said Ms. Schepici saw the authentic version of herself and helped her trust her own instincts. Ms. Schepici also demonstrated to Ms. Seguin what unwavering leadership looked like.

“One of the most important lessons Denise imparted is one I will carry for the rest of my career,” she said. “Patient care begins with caring for our staff. When people feel cared for, they deliver care that reflects that same spirit.”

Ms. Schepici told the Gazette that being able to pass the baton to Ms. Seguin gives her joy.

Ms. Schepici led the hospital for eight years.

Ray Ewing

Ms. Schepici led the hospital for eight years.

Ray Ewing

“It’s time to leave on the high wave and the hospital is in great hands,” Ms. Schepici said.

During the ceremony, chief of medical staff Dr. Dan Pesch told the crowd that Ms. Schepici’s passion for the work was evident from the beginning as she imparted wisdom and built camaraderie throughout the building.

Latonia James, director of perioperative and perinatal care, said she “grew-up” within the hospital and thanked Ms. Schepici for leaving it a better place.

“I just want you to know that while we celebrate your retirement today, that your legacy will continue to move through the halls [and] through the people,” Ms. James said.

The hospital presented Ms. Schepici with the same plaque embossed in a brick at the Navigator Homes neighborhood, only this one is in a frame with well wishes and words of gratitude from staff.

Ms. Schepici told staff that what she admired most about her time working at the hospital was how the team turned challenges into opportunities.

“You’re making a difference every day with your care, your love, your compassion,” she said. “You’re making your mark on Martha’s Vineyard and honestly, I believe you are making a mark on the world.”

Ms. Schepici said that after 45 years working in healthcare, she looks forward to staying on-Island and enjoying a slower pace of life.