Mercy Flight Central has announced that Lauren Kolb will become the organization’s new President and CEO, effective December 1. Kolb will succeed Jeff Bartkoski, who is retiring after leading the nonprofit air medical service since 2014.
“It has been my absolute honor and pleasure to serve our community through the lifesaving mission of Mercy Flight Central,” Bartkoski said. “I am excited for MFC’s future as it continues to grow and reach new heights under Lauren’s leadership.”
Marisa Geitner, Chair of the Board of Directors, expressed gratitude to Bartkoski and enthusiasm for Kolb’s appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Lauren Kolb to the MFC team. Lauren has proven to be a well-respected and transformative leader throughout her career. We believe she will bring a dynamic and energetic approach to strengthening and advancing the critical mission of Mercy Flight Central for years to come.”
Kolb said she is honored to join Mercy Flight Central. “This organization is defined by the skill, dedication, and unwavering commitment of its teams, who fulfill a lifesaving mission every day across our region. I look forward to building upon the incredible foundation of this organization and working closely with the Board, staff, and partners to ensure MFC remains a premier provider of critical care transport for our communities.”
About Lauren Kolb
Kolb is an experienced executive with a proven record in nonprofit and for-profit leadership, operational excellence, and organizational growth. Most recently, she served as Senior Vice President and Senior Wealth Advisor at Tompkins Financial Advisors, managing a $125M+ portfolio and leading new business initiatives.
Previously, Kolb held senior leadership roles at Canandaigua National Corporation and Genesee Valley Trust Company, generating significant business growth even in challenging economic conditions. She has also served on numerous boards, including Mercy Flight Central, the Canandaigua Chamber of Commerce, the United Way, and Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance. Her leadership has been recognized with awards, including the 2023 Alumna of the Year at Roberts Wesleyan University, the ATHENA Award, and the Rochester Business Journal’s Financial Leadership Award.
Kolb holds a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from Roberts Wesleyan University, and is a Certified Wealth Strategist®. She resides in Victor with her husband, Brian, and their Labrador, Kolby Kolb.
About Mercy Flight Central
Founded in 1992, Mercy Flight Central is a nonprofit organization providing critical air medical services across New York State. The organization has served more than 18,000 patients and employs approximately 70 staff members. With three base locations covering the Finger Lakes, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, and Southern Adirondacks, MFC operates advanced life support helicopters staffed 24/7/365. Its aircraft can travel within a 150-mile radius of its bases, ensuring rapid response for patients in need.
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