BCHC President and CEO, Mary Kargbo, Announces Retirement

The Board of Directors of Berks Community Health Center (BCHC) announced on Thursday, Aug. 6, the retirement of its founding President and Chief Executive Officer, Mary Kargbo, following 14 years of visionary leadership and dedicated service to the organization and the Berks County community.

Since leading the establishment of BCHC, Kargbo has played an instrumental role in building the organization into the trusted, comprehensive healthcare provider it is today. Under her leadership, BCHC has expanded access to high-quality, patient-centered care, strengthened community partnerships, and remained steadfast in its mission of improving the health and well-being of individuals and families throughout Berks County.

“Mary’s leadership has shaped the foundation and future of Berks Community Health Center,” said Dr. Michael Baxter, Chair of the BCHC Board of Directors. “Her unwavering commitment to expanding access to care, serving our community with compassion, and building a mission-driven organization has left an enduring legacy. We are deeply grateful for her years of service and the countless lives she has impacted.”

Throughout her tenure, Kargbo championed innovative healthcare initiatives, fostered meaningful collaborations with community organizations, and helped position BCHC as a critical provider of primary, dental, behavioral health, and supportive services for the region’s most vulnerable populations.

“The founding of BCHC as an organization is a remarkable achievement; sustaining and growing it into a respected community institution is an extraordinary legacy,” stated Pat Giles, one of the founding BCHC Leaders and current board member. “Mary’s vision, perseverance, and passion have created a lasting impact that will continue to benefit our patients, employees, and community for generations.”

Kargbo will remain with BCHC through Sept. 12, 2026, to support a seamless leadership transition and ensure continuity of care for patients, employees, and community partners. The Board of Directors will share additional information regarding the organization’s leadership transition in the coming days.

The Board will also host a community reception in September to honor Kargbo’s distinguished career and celebrate her many contributions to Berks Community Health Center and the community it serves. Additional details will be announced soon.

Mrs. Kargbo noted, “Having the opportunity to lead BCHC since its inception has been the highlight of my professional career, and working side by side with our physicians, medical team, and our dedicated staff has been a true honor. Most of all, to be part of watching our community be able to access quality healthcare is one of the best impacts I am proud to leave behind.”