LECOM Medical Center Celebrates Leadership Transition and Tribute to Mary L. Eckert

Friday, 31 October 2025

LECOM Health honors a momentous occasion in its legacy as Mary L. Eckert, after 42 years of exceptional leadership at LECOM Medical Center, transitions to a new role as Director of Community Engagement and LECOM Ambassador with the LECOM Institute for Successful Living. With deep respect and gratitude, we celebrate her transition from the role of Administrator, President/CEO, and Executive Director-a journey that has profoundly shaped the hospital, its people, and the community it serves.

Mary Eckert's unparalleled dedication and tireless service have been the cornerstone of the growth and success of LECOM Medical Center. Under her stewardship, the institution not only has expanded its services, but it has fostered a culture of excellence, compassion, and commitment to patient care. Her leadership was not simply defined by the titles she held, rather by the heart that she poured into every initiative, every challenge, and every decision made. It is no exaggeration to say that Mary Eckert's vision and leadership have touched countless lives, and her legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.

As LECOM Health Regional President, Danielle Hansen, D.O., so aptly stated: "It is with deep respect and heartfelt appreciation for Mary's many years of extraordinary service that we join her in celebration of this transition."

This new role will allow Mary Eckert to continue shaping the future of healthcare and community well-being, with an expanded focus upon engagement and wellness through the LECOM Institute for Successful Living. As a LECOM Ambassador, she will carry forward her passion for service, fostering relationships that will further elevate the LECOM Health mission to transform lives and to improve health.

In addition to this transition, LECOM Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Marcus Babiak, PharmD, MHSA, as Chief Operating Officer of LECOM Medical Center, a position that became effective October 1, 2025.

With a distinguished background and a profound understanding of healthcare leadership, Dr. Babiak brings a wealth of experience to his new role. A graduate of LECOM, Dr. Babiak earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2010 and a Master's in Health Services Administration in 2015. Having served at LECOM Medical Center since 2014, he is well-positioned to lead with the same spirit of innovation and compassion that Mary Eckert championed.

As Dr. Hansen noted, "Marcus brings to this role a strong record of leadership in healthcare and a commitment to excellence. Together, we will continue to advance our organization with the same spirit of innovation, compassion, and dedication that has defined our past."

As we celebrate the legacy of Mary Eckert and welcome Dr. Marcus Babiak into his new role, we are reminded of a powerful quote from Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, whose work in healthcare went far beyond physical treatments. She revolutionized the way in which we approach care, not only with statistics, but also with a deep sense of empathy toward the patients she served.

Nightingale said:

"I attribute my success to this-I never gave or took any excuse."

Mary L. Eckert has made us feel valued, cared for, and empowered, and her contributions will echo in the heart of LECOM Medical Center for years to come. Like Nightingale, Eckert's unwavering dedication and refusal to offer excuses for pursuing excellence have made a profound impact. Her relentless commitment to care, compassion, and service to others is a legacy that will continue to inspire and to shape the future of healthcare.