Ruth MacAlpine, a forceful leader for resident care for decades in Michigan, is retiring as administrator of Bay County Medical Care Facility on Dec. 31, 2019.
At a special meeting on Dec. 17, the Michigan County Medical Care Facilities Council (MCMCFC) Board of Directors voted unanimously to make MacAlpine a lifetime member of the organization. She becomes the fourth such member, joining Gary Easton of Lapeer County, Sandra Place of Jackson County and Chester Pintarelli of Iron County.
In addition to her many years of service in Bay, Huron and Schoolcraft counties, MacAlpine has contributed her time and talents to the MCMCFC in a wide variety of roles:
- Board member and president
- Chair of the Legislative and Regulatory and Nominating Committees
- Member of the Purchase of Service Committee and GPO Board of Directors
MacAlpine has also served on NACHFa Board of Directors, sharing her talents and passion in the service of skilled nursing care nationally.
“In every capacity, she has served with passion and distinction,” said Renee Beniak, executive director of MCMCFC. “She leaves a legacy of improving the lives of thousands of residents at each facility that has been fortunate to have her ask their leader and administrator. Her daily presence, energy and commitment will be missed.”
MacAlpine holds what she might consider the dubious distinction of serving longer than any other person as the immediate past president of MCMCFC, a circumstance much remarked upon to some merriment at council events in recent years.
She’s a staunch advocate for proper care for residents. In October, for example, she took to the airwaves to argue against a state proposal to reduce reimbursement rates that would have meant significant reductions at her facility – and at other facilities.
And she helped shepherd a $21.5 million renovation at Bay MCF that is scheduled to be done in late 2020.
“Throughout Ruth’s career, she has provided stellar leadership to the Huron, Schoolcraft and Bay County Medical Care Facilities,” said Keith Miller, administrator at Huron MCF, in his nominating letter for the honor. “Her passion for the welfare of the residents of these facilities is matched only by the commitment she has displayed in many leadership positions she has held during her tenure.”