John Cotton to Step Down from Spencer Hospital Advisory Committee

posted on Thursday, February 27, 2025 in Public Notices

After over three decades of dedicated service, John Cotton will step down from his role on the Spencer Hospital Advisory Committee on Thursday, February 27, 2025. 

John’s relationship with the Spencer Hospital began in 1993 when he helped form the Spencer Regional Healthcare Foundation and soon joined the Foundation Board. In 2005, he was appointed to the Spencer Hospital Board of Trustees. During his 12-year tenure as a trustee, he played an instrumental role in guiding the hospital through significant growth and development. After his time on the Board of Trustees, John continued to provide invaluable leadership by serving on the Advisory Committee, where he helped steer numerous important projects and initiatives. 

Throughout his years of service, John was a driving force behind some of Spencer Hospital’s most notable achievements, including fundraising for the Abben Cancer Center, the creation of the Birth Center, and the development of the new Emergency Department. He was also instrumental in the acquisition of the Hartley Clinic, the opening of the Spencer Dialysis Center, and the purchase of Northwest Iowa ENT. Additionally, under his leadership, Spencer Hospital saw the addition of advanced medical technology, including state-of-the-art surgical robots, imaging equipment, and the remodeling of diagnostic imaging departments. 

“John’s leadership and vision have been absolutely essential to the continued success of Spencer Hospital,” said Brenda Tiefenthaler, Spencer Hospital President/CEO. “Thanks to his guidance, we’ve been able to expand our healthcare services to better meet the needs of our growing community. Two of the most significant milestones during his tenure were the addition of the Abben Cancer Center to address our region’s cancer care needs, and the establishment of the Spencer Regional Healthcare Foundation, which has provided critical financial support for our hospital’s growth since 1993.” 

John’s impact with Spencer Hospital started with the development of the Spencer Regional Healthcare Foundation. He was a founding member of the Foundation, joining the Foundation Board shortly after its inception in 1993. Over the years, John’s leadership and commitment were key in securing significant funding for the Foundation’s vital initiatives, including the Abben Cancer Center and co-chairing with John Rahn the 2014 Endowment Campaign, which helped raise significant funds for ongoing healthcare improvements. After stepping down from the Foundation Board in 2021, John’s influence continues to help the Foundation, which supported over $2 million in upgrades to hospital equipment, building expansions, and patient care needs in 2024 alone. 

“John’s passion for improving healthcare in our community has left a lasting impact,” said Sara Taylor, Director of the Spencer Regional Healthcare Foundation. “His vision and unwavering dedication have helped enhance our ability to support Spencer Hospital in its mission to provide exceptional care to all who need it. We are incredibly grateful for the years of service he has given, as well as for the continued support from both him and his wife, Carole Lea, in advancing healthcare in our region.” 

John’s contributions have also left a profound impact on the Spencer Hospital Board of Trustees. “John has been a guiding force for many trustees over the years, offering invaluable insight and mentorship,” said Amanda Bare, President of the Spencer Hospital Board of Trustees. “His dedication to the hospital and community has set a high standard for leadership, and his efforts have helped shape the vision and future of healthcare in our region. We are incredibly thankful for his years of service and the wisdom he has shared with so many of us.” 

As John steps down from his formal role on the Spencer Hospital Advisory Committee, his legacy will continue to influence and shape the future of healthcare in the region. Spencer Hospital and the Foundation express their deepest gratitude for John’s contributions and ongoing commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community. His years of service and leadership have left an indelible mark that will benefit the community for generations to come.