Gurwin Nursing Home Founder To Step Down As CEO

COMMACK, NY - Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Commack announced this week that current CEO and found Executive Vice President, Herbert H. Friedman, will be stepping down.

The board has appointed Stuart B. Almer as the new President and CEO of the Center as well as Gurwin Jewish Fay J. Lindner Residences, Gurwin Home Care Agency and Gurwin Jewish Healthcare Foundation, starting on January 1, 2018.

Almer currently serves as Administrator/Chief Operating Officer for Gurwin.

Friedman will remain with Gurwin as President/CEO of the newly-established Gurwin parent corporation, Gurwin Healthcare System, and of Fountaingate Gardens, Gurwin’s proposed independent housing community. Additionally, he will have input on strategic planning through 2018.

Since joining the Gurwin team in 2015 from Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, Almer has been responsible for the day-to-day operations of Gurwin’s 460-bed nursing and rehabilitation center.

“I am honored to be able to step into this leadership position at this important juncture in the history of Gurwin Jewish,” Almer said. “As we continue to adapt to a rapidly changing and challenging healthcare environment, I look forward to guiding change and spearheading innovation to ensure long-term growth for the Gurwin Family of Healthcare Services.”

In that time, he spearheaded the creation of a 60-bed memory care unit, expanded the adult day care program to include a social program for those with mild to moderate dementia, and has influenced change in the facility’s CMS rating to five stars, among other highlights.

“Stu is a proven leader, with a comprehensive understanding of our rapidly-changing healthcare environment, a strength in strategic planning and an appreciation for our Gurwin mission,” Bert E. Brodsky, Chairman of the Board of Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center said. “Gurwin has come far in the 29 years since its founding to serve the Long Island community. With much still to accomplish, we are certain that Stu is the perfect choice to position Gurwin for long-term growth and success.”

Photos courtesy of Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center