2 Central Peninsula Hospital Shaun Keef, CEO Central Peninsula Hospital A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO Photo by Heather Hays Tribute to a legend Alex Russell, MD, a beloved pediatrician at Central Peninsula Hospital, is retiring in January after a remarkable career spanning nearly five decades of dedicated service to the children of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. His retirement marks the end of an era in health care for the region—an era that stretches back to the 1970s. Dr. Russell’s journey in medicine began with his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in 1964. After serving three years in the U.S. Navy, he completed his pediatrics residency at Emory University in Atlanta. In 1969, he moved to Anchorage to practice family medicine, briefly returning to Atlanta in 1970 for additional pediatrics training. The year 1976 marked a significant turning point in Dr. Russell’s career, as it is when he moved to Soldotna. Since then, he has been an integral part of the community, providing exceptional pediatric care to generations of families on the Kenai Peninsula. Leaving a legacy of compassionate care Throughout his career, Dr. Russell has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of children. His expertise, compassion and dedication have earned him the respect and admiration of patients, colleagues and the community at large. Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Russell is an accomplished pilot and flight instructor. His passion for aviation has led him to serve on the Missionary Aviation Board for four decades. Recently, he received the prestigious FAA Wright Brothers Award for 50 years of safe flying, a testament to his skill and commitment to safety. Dr. Russell’s contributions to health care in Alaska have not gone unnoticed. He was honored with the Paton Award from the Alaska Hospital and Healthcare Association, recognizing over 40 years of dedicated medical service to Alaskans. As Dr. Russell retires, he leaves behind a legacy of compassionate care and community service. His impact on the health of countless children and families in the Central Peninsula area is immeasurable. The community’s recognition of Dr. Russell as the 2024 outstanding individual in health care is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to pediatric medicine. Central Peninsula Hospital extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Russell for his years of dedicated service to the communities within the service area, and we wish him a welldeserved and joyful retirement.
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