The American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE) of the American Hospital Association (AH) has announced a new executive director: Patrick J. (PJ) Andrus, MBA, CAE, who has worked for ASHE for 11 years and most recently oversaw ASHE operations as a deputy executive director for the society.

Patrick (PJ) Andrus

Patrick (PJ) Andrus

“I am honored and excited for the opportunity to continue working with ASHE’s Board of Directors, our team, and dedicated members to further the work ASHE does to optimize the health care physical environment,” says Andrus, who began his role as executive director on October 10. “We will be keenly focused on supporting our members with the professional development, advocacy representation, information, and resources they need to face the challenges of today and the future, and to excel in their careers.”

Andrus succeeds Dale Woodin, CHFM, FASHE, who took a position as AHA vice president for personal membership groups earlier in 2016. “When I was given the opportunity to lead AHA’s division of personal membership groups this spring, it was important to me and to the ASHE Board of Directors that we establish a selection process that would produce a worthy and capable leader while providing a smooth transition, allowing ASHE’s important work to continue on our current trajectory,” says Woodin, who served as ASHE executive director for 11 years.

“We have succeeded in that goal, and I know I am leaving this incredible organization in good hands,” Woodin says.

“This is a great opportunity for our organization,” says Chad Beebe, AIA, FASHE, who will continue as deputy executive director of ASHE, overseeing advocacy and education programs. “PJ has a great vision for the future of ASHE, and I’m honored to be working with him as we achieve our goals,” Beebe says.

ASHE President Terry Scott, MBA, CHFM, CHSP, SASHE, system director of engineering services for Memorial Hermann Health Services, notes that ASHE conducted a nationwide search for the position. “We interviewed a number of extraordinary candidates, which speaks to the respect and recognition that ASHE has earned in our field,” Scott says. “I’m confident we’ve chosen the right person to build on ASHE’s success and take us even further.”