Erie Shores HealthCare’s board of directors has approved the appointment of Katelyn Dryden as interim president and chief executive officer, effective March 23, 2026.
Until that date, Dryden will serve as interim president and CEO designate and will work closely with current President and CEO Kristin Kennedy through a structured transition period. Kennedy will remain in her role through March 22, 2026, as previously announced.
“This appointment ensures strong, stable leadership and continuity for our patients, families, and staff,” said Duffy Kniaziew, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Katelyn has the experience, knowledge of our organization, and steady leadership approach needed to guide Erie Shores through this transition and keep our focus where it belongs, on safe care close to home.”
Kniaziew also thanked Kennedy for her leadership and service to the community. “Kristin has led Erie Shores with integrity, calm, and a clear focus on patients through some of the most challenging moments in recent healthcare history. We are grateful for her dedication over the past seven years and for her commitment to supporting a smooth transition in the months ahead.”
Dryden said her focus will be on stability, teamwork, and maintaining momentum on the hospital’s priorities.
“I’m grateful for the board’s confidence and for the opportunity to serve our community in this role,” Dryden said. “Erie Shores has an exceptional team, and our work continues without interruption. My priority is to support our people, maintain safe and reliable care close to home, and ensure a smooth transition in the months ahead.”
Kennedy recognized the importance of a planned handover. “I’m proud of what our teams have accomplished and confident in the strength of Erie Shores’ leadership,” she said. “I look forward to supporting Katelyn and the organization through a thoughtful transition.”
The board will establish a Leadership Transition Committee to oversee the next phase of the transition and to confirm the organization’s long-term leadership approach. This work will include determining the most appropriate path forward and the timing of key milestones.
“The committee’s role is to ensure a thorough and structured process, and to recommend the approach that best supports the hospital and our community,” Kniaziew said. “We will share updates as key milestones are confirmed.”
An interim Chief Financial Officer will be announced at a later date.
Katelyn Dryden, CPA, MBA
Katelyn Dryden is a Lakeshore resident who currently serves as Erie Shores HealthCare’s chief financial officer and vice-president, outpatient services. Dryden is vice-chair of the board of directors for the Windsor-Essex Community Health Centre (weCHC), a graduate of the Ontario Hospital Association-endorsed CEO succession program, and a member of the Ontario Hospital Association’s Planning and Performance Advisory Group.
She previously held senior roles with TransForm Shared Service Organization and is a Chartered Professional Accountant with an MBA from the University of Windsor’s Odette School of Business.
