Buffalo, NY – Catholic Health has named Jeremy Essman, DBA, PA-C, FACHE, President of Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Mount St. Mary’s Hospital, and Lockport Memorial Hospital. Essman succeeds Walt Ludwig, who retired from Kenmore Mercy at the end of October. Catholic Health Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Jim Garvey served as President of Mount St. Mary’s and Lockport Memorial prior to Essman’s appointment.
Essman brings more than 20 years of healthcare leadership experience and 25 years of military service with the U.S. Air Force, combining clinical expertise with extensive operational and strategic knowledge.
In this expanded role for Catholic Health, Essman will work closely with hospital leaders, providers, and associates to advance quality, safety, and performance across all three hospitals and affiliated sites, including the Niagara Ambulatory Surgery Center in Lockport.
“Jeremy is an accomplished, mission-driven leader whose deep operational expertise and clinical background align perfectly with Catholic Health’s commitment to compassionate, high-quality care,” said Garvey. “His proven ability to lead complex organizations, improve performance, and build strong teams will be instrumental in advancing our strategic goals across Kenmore Mercy, Mount St. Mary’s, and Lockport Memorial hospitals.”
Most recently, Essman served as System Vice President of Hospital Operations at Concord Hospital in New Hampshire, overseeing three hospital campuses, multiple surgery centers, and a comprehensive cancer program. He previously held leadership roles at Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute, including Vice President of Hospital Operations.
Essman holds a Doctor of Business Administration from Liberty University, a Master of Healthcare Administration from Roberts Wesleyan College, and a Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from D’Youville University. He also earned a certificate in Managing Healthcare Delivery from Harvard Business School and continues to maintain his physician assistant licensure.
He has received numerous awards throughout his military service and healthcare career, including Airman of the Year, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Bravest of Western New York Award, and Business First’s Healthcare Champion honor.
