Georgia Rock, Chief Operating Officer at HopeWest, is retiring after a 44-year career in healthcare. She will conclude her role at the end of the year.

According to a news release from HopeWest, Rock was an integral part of the HopeWest team for the past eight years, bringing exceptional leadership, compassion and dedication to its dementia support, PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly), palliative care, hospice and bereavement programs.

Rock said one of the most rewarding parts of her role was shaping a generation of new leaders, whom she is confident will carry forward the mission of HopeWest with heart and dedication.

Looking back on her career, Rock says the most important thing is to work for organizations that share your values. And during the tough conversations, she says, “Always be humble, kind and speak the truth in love.”

Rock earned her undergraduate degree in communication disorders from Colorado State University before starting her career in healthcare administration and later obtaining her MBA. She joined Aegis Home Health Services in 1982, then worked with the Visiting Nurses Association from 1988 to 1996. She then spent 22 years at Pathways Home Health and Hospice, a community-based nonprofit in northern California, before joining HopeWest.

Returning to Colorado, Rock concluded her career at HopeWest, where she says she has had the honor of supporting numerous families and connecting with countless friends, donors, and neighbors. She also met her husband, Kerry Fordyce, as a result of her move to Grand Junction.

“Through Georgia’s tireless work, she has guided our teams in delivering exceptional care to our patients and families, strengthening our mission at every step,” said Deneen Silva, president and CEO of HopeWest. “I share my deepest gratitude with Georgia for her unwavering service and incredible impact on this organization and the communities we serve.”