Margaret Franckhauser, CEO of Central NH VNA & Hospice, is stepping down in December to become the executive director of the Next Fifty Initiative, a Colorado- based grant making foundation dedicated to seniors.
Franckhauser began working with Central NH VNA & Hospice over 20 years ago when it was known as Community Health & Hospice. After serving as a board member, she accepted the position of associate director, then quickly moved into the executive director position when her predecessor, Alida Millham, retired. She first came to NH’s Lakes Region in 1985 and has worked as a nurse practitioner at Belknap Family Medicine, a nurse Consultant for the Bureau of Maternal and Child Health, program chief for the Bureau of Disease Control, and as Director of Ambulatory Programs for LRGHealthcare, based in Laconia.
Franckhauser states, “Central New Hampshire VNA & Hospice is in a strong position both clinically and financially. The agency is forward thinking and responsive to the needs of the community. This is the right time to step aside to allow someone else to take the helm. She adds, “I have been given the opportunity to lead a grant making organization in Colorado which will allow me to combine my passion for philanthropy with my deep interest in aging. It is an incredible opportunity to do work that has a lasting impact on seniors and their communities.”
The Board of Trustees is launching an executive search and has appointed Christine Long, COO, as the Interim CEO until a new executive is hired. Board Chairman, Jared Price, commented “Margaret has done a wonderful job leading the agency in service to the community. She skillfully managed a recent merger and has become a leading voice in New Hampshire’s healthcare environment. She leaves behind a legacy of sound leadership and community commitment."