OLEAN, N.Y. — Steven Jackson, regional executive director for YMCA of the Twin Tiers, has been appointed president of the Olean General Hospital Foundation, effective Oct. 13.

“Steve has a strong background in both operations and development, as well as marketing and communications in the non-profit setting,” said Christopher Napoleon, OGH Foundation board chairman. “After an extensive search, we feel that his exceptional skills, strong background and local ties to the area fully prepare him to be successful in this position.”

Napoleon said he “very excited” Jackson is taking the position, calling him an “impressive and extraordinary” person.  

“His enthusiasm and strong interpersonal skills along with the way he sincerely cares about people and healthcare will no doubt help him to advance the mission of the foundation,” Napoleon said.

Jackson holds a master’s degree in sports management from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He was named branch manager of the Bradford Family YMCA in 2011. With the recent merger of Bradford, Olean and Wellsville into the YMCA of the Twin Tiers, he was promoted to regional executive director in 2014.

Jackson and his wife, Erin, live in Bradford wit h their son, Carter, and daughter, Kendyl.

Timothy Finan, president and CEO of Upper Allegheny Health System, BRMC and OGH, said the search for the position was initiated when Karen Fohl, current foundation president, who has held this position for more than 20 years, expressed her desire to step down.

“Karen will assist with Steve’s onboarding,” Finan said, “after which she will continue to serve as vice president for institutional advancement, assisting the hospital with the development of various projects and initiatives.

“Certainly we are grateful for the leadership of Karen Fohl over these many years as president of the foundation and look forward to her continued service to OGH,” Finan said.