Dirk Griffith is retiring as the executive director of the Lenoir Hospital Foundation. After turning 65 in August, he started thinking about his future and made the decision to retire.

“Dirk’s hard work and dedication has made a lasting impact on the hospital as well as our community,” said Margaret Williams, Foundation Board Chair. “Very few people dedicate themselves to their job the way he has. It has been a wonderful experience having had the opportunity to work with him. Dirk has been a great example to our team.”

The predecessor to Griffith’s position with the foundation was Brenda Canup, and Constance Hengel will assume the role.

“Dirk has spent a very enjoyable 10 years with us in the Foundation director role,” said Hengel. “He has pushed us forward in our assets and image in the community. We really appreciate his work and congratulate him on his retirement.”

One of Griffith’s most proud moments while working with the foundation was when they assisted UNC Lenoir Health Care with raising money for a linear accelerator to be used in the cancer center.

“I have had the pleasure of seeing up close many of the facets of Dirk, during his 10 years here,” said Hengel. “From the first phone calls of interest for the job, through the early days of learning the hospital ropes, and meeting people in the community, as he gained the lay of the land.”

Griffith plans to explore new things when he retires and volunteer at Mary’s Kitchen. He’s also interested in the Master Gardener’s Program.

“He has had a genuine gift in making everyone feel totally engaged through his personal interest in people all the while as he learned the stories behind the faces,” said Hengel.

Griffith’s biggest regret is that he will not see the folks at the hospital which he called his community within a community.

“He has always enjoyed his role: from the executive director perspective of leading board member functions and responsibilities, to individual meetings with potential donors and donors and gauging interest in a gift to our cause,” said Hengel.

For now, Griffith will continue his work with the Rotary Club and at some point, he may get a part-time job.

“Dirk you have worked your entire life for this day, you deserve it, and all the best for a happy retirement,” said Williams. “I am going to miss you!”