Brattleboro Retreat Mourns the Passing of Board Chair Tom Huebner 

The Brattleboro Retreat mourns the passing of Tom Huebner, our esteemed Board Chair, whose leadership and vision have left an enduring mark on healthcare in Vermont. Tom dedicated his life to improving healthcare access, quality, and collaboration, first as CEO of Rutland Regional Medical Center and later as a transformative force at the Retreat and many other healthcare systems across the region.   

“Tom’s tenure on our Board was defined by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to mental health care. Under his guidance, the Retreat not only navigated the challenges of the pandemic but emerged stronger, expanding services and restoring access to care for those in need. His strategic insight and passion for patient-centered care were instrumental in revitalizing our hospital and reinforcing its role as a vital resource for Vermont and beyond,” said Steve Cummings, Brattleboro Retreat Chief Executive Officer.   

A deeply respected figure in the state’s healthcare community, Tom dedicated nearly three decades to Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC), serving as CEO from 1997 until his retirement in 2018. Under his leadership, RRMC earned recognition as one of America’s best regional hospitals and became a model for collaboration, quality improvement, and financial stability.  

Tom championed patient-centered care, strengthened partnerships across the healthcare system, and led efforts to integrate mental health services into primary care settings. He was a key member on multiple non-profit boards, fostering a collaborative environment among providers and ensuring that hospitals, primary care offices, and mental health services worked together to deliver comprehensive, coordinated care. His ability to align diverse stakeholders toward a shared vision made him a trailblazer in healthcare innovation and reform.  

Tom brought the same passion and expertise to the Brattleboro Retreat. As Board Chair, he played a pivotal role in guiding the hospital through one of the most challenging periods in its history. In the wake of the pandemic, he worked tirelessly to restore the Retreat’s capacity, expand outpatient services, and address the statewide mental health crisis. His leadership was instrumental in bringing the Retreat back to full strength, ensuring more patients received the critical care they needed. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tom was a mentor, a collaborator, and a friend.  

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Tom’s family, friends, and colleagues. Tom was a visionary leader and a hero to the many people who had the opportunity to know and work with him over these many years. The positive impact of his legacy will benefit Vermont for decades to come,” said Justin Johnson, Vice Chair of the Brattleboro Retreat’s Board of Trustees.